Fall Maintenance Tips to Prevent Mold and Water Damage in Your Boise Home

9/5/2023 (Permalink)

Protect Your Boise Home from Water Damage – Expert Gutter Solutions!

Fall in Boise is a beautiful season, with its crisp air and vibrant foliage. It's also a crucial time for homeowners to prepare their properties for the upcoming winter months. One of the most significant concerns during this time is preventing mold and water damage in your home. The team at SERVPRO of Boise understands the importance of proactive maintenance, and we're here to provide you with essential tips to protect your home during the fall season.

Inspect and Clean Gutters

Boise's fall season often brings with it falling leaves and heavy rain. Clogged gutters can quickly become a major source of water damage. Ensure your gutters are free from leaves and debris, so water can flow freely away from your home's foundation. You might also consider installing gutter guards to prevent future clogs.

Check and Repair Roofing

Roof leaks can lead to significant water damage and mold growth. Before winter arrives, inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles. Address any issues promptly to prevent water from seeping into your home. If you're unsure about your roof's condition, consider hiring a professional roofing contractor for a thorough inspection.

Trim Trees and Overhanging Branches

Fallen branches can damage your roof or allow moisture to infiltrate your home. Trim back trees and branches that are too close to your house. This not only prevents potential damage but also reduces the accumulation of leaves in your gutters.

Seal Gaps and Cracks

Inspect the exterior of your home for gaps and cracks that could allow water infiltration. Seal any openings with caulk or weatherstripping to keep moisture and cold air out. Pay special attention to areas around windows, doors, and the foundation.

Clean and Insulate Your Crawlspace or Basement

A damp crawlspace or basement is a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Clean these areas thoroughly and ensure proper ventilation. Consider adding insulation to maintain a consistent temperature, which can help prevent condensation and moisture buildup.

Check and Clean Your HVAC System

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can contribute to mold growth if not properly maintained. Change your air filters regularly and consider having your HVAC system professionally cleaned and serviced before the heating season begins.

Maintain Proper Indoor Humidity

Controlling indoor humidity is crucial for preventing mold growth. Invest in a dehumidifier if necessary, especially for areas prone to moisture, like basements or bathrooms. Keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50%.

Insulate and Protect Pipes

Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to water damage. Insulate exposed pipes and consider installing pipe heating cables in vulnerable areas. Additionally, know where your main water shut-off valve is located in case of an emergency.

Schedule a Professional Mold Inspection

Even with preventive measures in place, it's essential to schedule regular mold inspections by professionals like SERVPRO of Boise. They have the expertise and tools to identify hidden mold issues and ensure your home remains mold-free.

Taking proactive steps to prevent mold and water damage in your Boise home during the fall season is vital for the well-being of your property and your family's health. By following these tips and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can enjoy the beauty of autumn in Boise without worrying about potential home damage. SERVPRO of Boise is here to assist you with any mold or water damage issues, so don't hesitate to reach out for expert guidance and services. Stay safe and enjoy the season!

Helpful tip for an ongoing water leak!

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

A helpful tip for an ongoing water leak from a broken supply line is to shut the main water valve to the structure off immediately to minimize the amount of water intrusion. If you are not sure of where the main water shut-off valve is or it becomes buried from outside debris and is taking more time to locate and turn off the water to the structure there is something else that you can do to help minimize the water intrusion. To minimize the water intrusion while the main shut-off valve is being located you can go around the structure and turn on all water faucets throughout. This would include sinks, showers, bathtubs, dishwashers, washing machines, and anything else that is connected to the water supply for the structure. What this does is reduce the amount of water pressure throughout the structure allowing less water to pump out of the broken supply line.

Assessing Water Damage

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

By: Layton C. 

Whenever a homeowner has a water loss, it is important to understand the damage the water can do, and how to asses it properly. One of the first things that SERVPRO does after meeting the homeowner is to inspect all affected materials in all affected areas. This allows us to gauge what is wet and how wet the material actually is. SERVPRO technicians use moisture meters and thermal cameras to map out the wet area. Most homeowners don’t own this equipment so they may not be able to see the full damage, but it is possible to get a general idea if one knows what to look for and understands how water travels.

Having the appropriate equipment and tools are essential for the quality of work performed. We see many homeowners extract water with a wet vac and place office fan’s around the wet area. This is a great start to prevent further damage, but the equipment used will not have the same efficiency as ours. When SERVPRO needs to remove a material we are trained on removing it in a specific way. We want to make the repair as easy and as quick as possible. 

Depending on what material we are trying to dry and the saturation level of the material could call for a specialized drying plan with more equipment than the traditional box fan and dehumidifier. Our goal is to get all 10’s with the customer satisfaction survey. Assessing the damage correctly and having the correct equipment is a must.  Meeting the expectations makes the mitigation process faster and cheaper.

Three Ways to Avoid Water Damage When You're Not Home

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what time of year it is, if you’re going to be away from your home for an extended amount of time – even just over night – it’s a smart idea to turn off your water until you return home. Why? Because it doesn’t take very much water to cause a whole lot of damage! If your pipes freeze and burst while you’re gone, or if a washer hose ruptures or a supply line leaks, major water damage can occur! There are a few things you can do before heading out of town to give you peace of mind when it comes to the state of your home’s water.

Shut off the Main Water Valve

Your safest bet is to turn off the main water valve. Make sure the adults in your home know where the main shutoff valve is and know how to turn it on and off. (Knowing this will also come in handy if you’re at home during an emergency, so the water can quickly be shut off!) Locate the main water valve near your water meter usually located in the basement, near the front of the house, attached to the outside of the home’s exterior, or in an underground box in the yard.

There are two types of main shutoff valves. You’ll probably find what’s called a “gate valve” if you’re in an older home. Turn the rounded handles a certain number of times to open or close the valve. The “ball valve” is more common today. Turn the lever-like handle 90 degrees in order to turn the water on or off. If this valve crosses the pipes, it’s closed; if it’s parallel to them, it’s open.

Test shutting off the valve ahead of time by locating the main shutoff valve, turning it off, and running a faucet. If no water comes out, you’ve successfully turned off your home’s water supply!

Turn off Individual Water Valves

But what if you’re leaving during the summer and you can’t turn off your entire water supply because you have automatic sprinklers? If this is the case, you can simply turn off individual water valves to the water sources with the highest damage risk. These sources include the dishwasher, washing machine, and ice-maker. Individual shutoff valves tend to be located directly on the supply lines leading to most appliances, including toilets and faucets. Usually, this will be a small rounded handle that you’ll turn clockwise. Doing this will turn off the water to that source. (Take note that the ice-maker shutoff valve may be under the sink or in the basement!)

If you’ll be shutting off individual water supplies, it’s a good idea to kill two birds with one stone and check your supply lines themselves. They can become weak over time, resulting in leaks, cracks, or bulging. If you notice these or other forms of corrosion, you may want to repair or replace them before leaving.

Turn off Water Supply to Outdoor Faucets

If you’re leaving during the colder seasons, it’s a good idea to also shut off the water to your outdoor faucets as well. Their shutoff valve will most likely be located inside your house. Shut it off before you head out the door. Once you’ve shut off the valve, turn on the exterior faucet to drain any excess water. And remember to detach the hoses, too!

If you follow these simple steps, you can rest easy knowing your home won’t be at risk of water damage while you’re away!

Water Damage Prevention Tips for your Boise home

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

The old adage ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure certainly applies to water damage prevention at residential properties. The cost of water damage and the disruption it causes can be significant. In most cases, the result of the water damage is covered by insurance, but in some instances, maintenance-related water damage may not be covered.

Here are a few tips to be proactive in preventing water damages issues:

1. Inspect appliance hoses and faucets at least annually. This would include checking water supply lines to the dishwasher, refrigerator ice maker, washing machine, water heater and bathroom and kitchen plumbing fixtures. Replace supply line hoses every 5-7 years.
2. Inspect showers and tubs regularly to ensure the caulking and seals are watertight and reseal if necessary.
3. Turn off the water to the washing machine and dishwasher when not at home. During extended absences from home, shut off the main water supply to the home.
4. Know where the main water supply shutoff valve is located so if a water leak happens, the resulting damage can be minimized by quickly shutting off the main water supply.
5. Consider installing water sensors or a water leak monitoring and shutoff system at your home.
6. Caulk and seal windows and doors to prevent water from entering the home.
7. Inspect your roof, gutters, and downspouts to identify any issues that would route water into your home.
8. Check sprinklers and irrigation systems to ensure they are not spraying water against the foundation walls and puddling near the home. Remove hoses during the winter and drain outside faucets to protect against frozen pipes.
9. Store off-season and personal belongings in waterproof bins or totes especially when near plumbing.
10. Store personal belongings off of the floor in basements.

In addition to these preventative measures, review your insurance policy with your insurance consultant to determine if you have the right coverage against water damage. However, if a water damage issue occurs, it is highly recommended you use the services of a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Boise our experience and methodology can save you money and minimize the areas of your home that are affected and in need or repair.

SERVPRO of Boise is Ready and Available 24/7

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to water damage the first few hours are critical in mitigating further damage. That's why SERVPRO is ready and available 24/7. The sooner our company can arrive and get the drying process started the better and less chance you will have lasting damage to your property. This also prevents the risk of mold growth which depending on the conditions can occur in as little as 24-48 hours. If you can locate the source of water damage the first step is shutting off your supply line if it's coming from the interior of the home. 

Once the extent of the damage is assessed we use moisture meters to detect hidden water in flooring, walls and ceilings. The next step is creating a drying plan to quickly remove moisture from the building materials using dehumidifiers and air movers. Sometimes contents are affected in which case we will inventory affected items and determine whether they are salvageable or not. Salvageable items will be packed out of the area for cleaning if necessary and stored until the job is complete. 

When the drying process is complete we will determine any further structural repairs and a construction estimator will inspect to start the reconstruction process. They will work with you in determining any changes you might want to make and bringing your property to a state of it "Like it never even happened." All salvageable contents will have been cleaned and returned to the home once the reconstruction process is complete. You’ll be involved each step of the way right up to the certificate of completion.

A helpful tip for an ongoing water leak!

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

A helpful tip for an ongoing water leak from a broken supply line is to shut the main water valve to the structure off immediately to minimize the amount of water intrusion. If you are not sure of where the main water shut-off valve is or it becomes buried from outside debris and is taking more time to locate and turn off the water to the structure there is something else that you can do to help minimize the water intrusion. To minimize the water intrusion while the main shut-off valve is being located you can go around the structure and turn on all water faucets throughout. This would include sinks, showers, bathtubs, dishwashers, washing machines, and anything else that is connected to the water supply for the structure. What this does is reduce the amount of water pressure throughout the structure allowing less water to pump out of the broken supply line.

Water Damage From a Burst Pipe

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Boise from a Burst Pipe Should be Promptly Addressed

A burst pipe can cause significant water damage in a home.  Water leakage can also be terribly expensive, possibly causing personal schedule changes and insurance claims. Additionally, mildew and mold can become a problem long after the initial damage. Thankfully, there are experts in water damage that can help the problems from a burst pipe be much more manageable.

Leaking Pipes

Pay attention to leaking pipes! Diligence can minimize the collateral damage from a burst pipe. Pay attention to where water has leaked. The water and moisture may have already caused a small amount of damage. Call a professional to determine the best course of action as soon as possible. An inexperienced homeowner attempting to fix the problem may just make it worse.

Preventing Structural Damage

The possibility of structural damage is the key reason homeowners should be extra vigilant regarding the plumbing in their homes. Structural damage may be difficult to spot. You should always contact an experienced contractor such as SERVPRO Boise to assess possible structural damage from leaky or burst pipes.

Mold Hazards

Mold is another serious problem that stems from water damage. Mold can be particularly vexing to homeowners. Because mold is living, it can grow and fill large portions of a home without the homeowner being aware. Eventually, mold can lead to structural damage. Mold can be in basements, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Mold removal can be a very difficult task once a foothold has been secured.

Additional Considerations

The above factors illustrate how complicated the ramifications of a burst pipe can be. A homeowner should not attempt to deal with any of these issues without the assistance of an expert well versed in water damage repair and mold remediation. The skills needed to deal effectively with mold, structural damage, and leaking pipes are beyond the average homeowner. Homeowners that attempt these tasks quite often worsen the existing problems. It is always best to hire an expert to inspect the damage after experiencing a burst pipe. SERVPRO Boise has the experience as a full-service water restoration company to rectify and repair all the problems related to a burst 
pipe.  Solving the problem of a burst pipe correctly will protect the investment of your home for years to come.

Three Ways to Avoid Water Damage When You're Not Home

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

No matter what time of year it is, if you’re going to be away from your home for an extended amount of time – even just overnight – it’s a smart idea to turn off your water until you return home. Why? Because it doesn’t take very much water to cause a whole lot of damage! If your pipes freeze and burst while you’re gone, or if a washer hose ruptures or a supply line leaks, major water damage can occur! There are a few things you can do before heading out of town to give you peace of mind when it comes to the state of your home’s water.

Shut off the Main Water Valve

Your safest bet is to turn off the main water valve. Make sure the adults in your home know where the main shutoff valve is and know how to turn it on and off. (Knowing this will also come in handy if you’re at home during an emergency, so the water can quickly be shut off!) Locate the main water valve near your water meter usually located in the basement, near the front of the house, attached to the outside of the home’s exterior, or in an underground box in the yard.

There are two types of main shutoff valves. You’ll probably find what’s called a “gate valve” if you’re in an older home. Turn the rounded handles a certain number of times to open or close the valve. The “ball valve” is more common today. Turn the lever-like handle 90 degrees in order to turn the water on or off. If this valve crosses the pipes, it’s closed; if it’s parallel to them, it’s open.

Test shutting off the valve ahead of time by locating the main shutoff valve, turning it off, and running a faucet. If no water comes out, you’ve successfully turned off your home’s water supply!

Turn off Individual Water Valves

But what if you’re leaving during the summer and you can’t turn off your entire water supply because you have automatic sprinklers? If this is the case, you can simply turn off individual water valves to the water sources with the highest damage risk. These sources include the dishwasher, washing machine, and ice-maker. Individual shutoff valves tend to be located directly on the supply lines leading to most appliances, including toilets and faucets. Usually, this will be a small rounded handle that you’ll turn clockwise. Doing this will turn off the water to that source. (Take note that the ice-maker shutoff valve may be under the sink or in the basement!)

If you’ll be shutting off individual water supplies, it’s a good idea to kill two birds with one stone and check your supply lines themselves. They can become weak over time, resulting in leaks, cracks, or bulging. If you notice these or other forms of corrosion, you may want to repair or replace them before leaving.

Turn off Water Supply to Outdoor Faucets

If you’re leaving during the colder seasons, it’s a good idea to also shut off the water to your outdoor faucets as well. Their shutoff valve will most likely be located inside your house. Shut it off before you head out the door. Once you’ve shut off the valve, turn on the exterior faucet to drain any excess water. And remember to detach the hoses, too!

If you follow these simple steps, you can rest easy knowing your home won’t be at risk of water damage while you’re away!

Three Ways to Avoid Water Damage When You're Not Home

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

No matter what time of year it is, if you’re going to be away from your home for an extended amount of time – even just overnight – it’s a smart idea to turn off your water until you return home. Why? Because it doesn’t take very much water to cause a whole lot of damage! If your pipes freeze and burst while you’re gone, or if a washer hose ruptures or a supply line leaks, major water damage can occur! There are a few things you can do before heading out of town to give you peace of mind when it comes to the state of your home’s water.

Shut off the Main Water Valve

Your safest bet is to turn off the main water valve. Make sure the adults in your home know where the main shutoff valve is and know how to turn it on and off. (Knowing this will also come in handy if you’re at home during an emergency, so the water can quickly be shut off!) Locate the main water valve near your water meter usually located in the basement, near the front of the house, attached to the outside of the home’s exterior, or in an underground box in the yard.

There are two types of main shutoff valves. You’ll probably find what’s called a “gate valve” if you’re in an older home. Turn the rounded handles a certain number of times to open or close the valve. The “ball valve” is more common today. Turn the lever-like handle 90 degrees in order to turn the water on or off. If this valve crosses the pipes, it’s closed; if it’s parallel to them, it’s open.

Test shutting off the valve ahead of time by locating the main shutoff valve, turning it off, and running a faucet. If no water comes out, you’ve successfully turned off your home’s water supply!

Turn off Individual Water Valves

But what if you’re leaving during the summer and you can’t turn off your entire water supply because you have automatic sprinklers? If this is the case, you can simply turn off individual water valves to the water sources with the highest damage risk. These sources include the dishwasher, washing machine, and ice-maker. Individual shutoff valves tend to be located directly on the supply lines leading to most appliances, including toilets and faucets. Usually, this will be a small rounded handle that you’ll turn clockwise. Doing this will turn off the water to that source. (Take note that the ice-maker shutoff valve may be under the sink or in the basement!)

If you’ll be shutting off individual water supplies, it’s a good idea to kill two birds with one stone and check your supply lines themselves. They can become weak over time, resulting in leaks, cracks, or bulging. If you notice these or other forms of corrosion, you may want to repair or replace them before leaving.

Turn off Water Supply to Outdoor Faucets

If you’re leaving during the colder seasons, it’s a good idea to also shut off the water to your outdoor faucets as well. Their shutoff valve will most likely be located inside your house. Shut it off before you head out the door. Once you’ve shut off the valve, turn on the exterior faucet to drain any excess water. And remember to detach the hoses, too!

If you follow these simple steps, you can rest easy knowing your home won’t be at risk of water damage while you’re away!

Classification of Water Damage in Your Home

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

In this post, we will be explaining some of the basics of water damage and how it can affect your home and health. Water damage is the leading culprit when it comes to property damage and restoration service needs.

Now, this actually surprises a lot of folks, when they hear water damage they usually imagine a flood from a nearby river, a natural disaster, etc. While events as such do occur, there are more common ways for water damage to affect your home, including:

• appliance leaks from your fridge, ice machine, washing machines, etc.
• toilet overflows
• sinks and bath/shower overflows or left running without attendance
• broken/leaky water pipes within walls and ceilings
• drainage issues around the property
• roof leaks and compromised exterior
• rain/wind storms

As you can see, water damage can originate from either internal or external sources and once it gets into your home it is important to know what kind of water you are dealing with.

What do we mean by what kind of water? Well in the restoration industry we recognize water in THREE different categories:

• CATEGORY 1 – Also referred to as “Clean Water”, this means that the water originated from a sanitary source and does not generally pose a risk to our health.
• CATEGORY 2 – This could also be referred to as “Grey Water”, meaning it contains some contamination and would not be sanitary enough for human consumption, posing a health risk if ingested.
• CATEGORY 3 – Commonly known as “Black Water”, this is water that is grossly contaminated and could contain disease-causing organisms, pathogens, and other harmful materials.

Now you know the 3 different categories of water and how it can enter into your home. Each of these different categories of water damage comes with their own do's and don'ts on how to deal with them. Restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Boise have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience to handle any water damage emergency

Water loss

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

By: Andrew V.

I have been working in water loss for the last eight years. During that time I have learned a lot and have been able to pass my knowledge on to many. Some of the most important things I have learned are building construction, communication skills, and attention to detail. Without these three skills, your ability to succeed will be impossible. The understanding of building construction gives you the knowledge of how water may travel and how this may affect a home. Communication skills allow you to take the knowledge you have and present it to the client in a clear and concise manner. This benefits both you and the client as you can ensure you are both on the same page in the process of resolving their water loss. Finally, attention to detail allows you to guarantee that the job has been completed to the highest standard and that all affected materials are dry and the job meets both the customer’s and industry’s standards. By making sure that you are using all three skills you can make certain you are succeeding in the world of water loss.

Communication and Customer Service

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

In an industry like this, one of the most important aspects of being successful within it is effective communication and customer service. For a lot of people, they have never dealt with a water loss in their home. As a result, they know very little about the mitigation process or any insurance involvement, so they usually have a lot of questions and/or concerns. A technician could know everything about mitigation, but if he can not efficiently explain all of the finer details of the processes to a homeowner, then it can potentially create problems between the company and the homeowner. A lot of homeowners are eventually okay with everything if it’s all explained to them, but they do like to understand why you are about to demo and dry out their home. The same goes for other parties a mitigation company deals with, including insurance agents, insurance adjusters, and property managers. These parties like to make sure a mitigation company knows what they’re doing before any work is started and that things will go smoothly from start to finish.

Classification of Water Damage in Your Home

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

In this post, we will be explaining some of the basics of water damage and how it can affect your home and health. Water damage is the leading culprit when it comes to property damage and restoration service needs.

Now, this actually surprises a lot of folks, when they hear water damage they usually imagine a flood from a nearby river, a natural disaster, etc. While events as such do occur, there are more common ways for water damage to affect your home, including:

• appliance leaks from your fridge, ice machine, washing machines, etc.
• toilet overflows
• sinks and bath/shower overflows or left running without attendance
• broken/leaky water pipes within walls and ceilings
• drainage issues around the property
• roof leaks and compromised exterior
• rain/wind storms

As you can see, water damage can originate from either internal or external sources and once it gets into your home it is important to know what kind of water you are dealing with.

What do we mean by what kind of water? Well in the restoration industry we recognize water in THREE different categories:

• CATEGORY 1 – Also referred to as “Clean Water”, this means that the water originated from a sanitary source and does not generally pose a risk to our health.
• CATEGORY 2 – This could also be referred to as “Grey Water”, meaning it contains some contamination and would not be sanitary enough for human consumption, posing a health risk if ingested.
• CATEGORY 3 – Commonly known as “Black Water”, this is water that is grossly contaminated and could contain disease-causing organisms, pathogens, and other harmful materials.

Now you know the 3 different categories of water and how it can enter into your home. Each of these different categories of water damage comes with their own do's and don'ts on how to deal with them. Restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Boise have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience to handle any water damage emergency

Summer Water Saving Tips!

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Every state is experiencing the effects of drought, and saving water is on everyone’s mind these days. We waste a lot of water; our showers are too long, and we are often obsessed with an emerald green lawn. We need to change the way we handle and view water and leave behind the outdated and inefficient water management systems of the past.

Here are some tips that will help you save water this summer. Your water bill will be reduced, and you can save yourself some time into the bargain as well as doing some good for the Earth.

1. Water your yard in the cool parts of the day. Water evaporates more quickly when it’s hot, so run your irrigation system while it’s most likely to stay with your lawn. Make sure you are not watering your sidewalk or your driveway, too. A drip system works quite well in this respect. Replacing your thirsty lawn with a drought-tolerant garden would be a great way to save water, and it won’t have to be mowed every week!
2. Check for leaky toilets. Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank. If the color shows up in the bowl, your tank is leaking, and could be wasting up to 100 gallons of water a day!
3. Take shorter showers. Trimming just two minutes off of your showers can save up to 1700 gallons of water a year. One way to do this is to turn off the shower while you shave or soap up. Install water-efficient showerheads, toilets, and faucets for a savings of thousands of gallons per year as well.
4. Cover the pool. Make sure the water in your pool stays there by covering it when you are not using it. This will prevent water loss by evaporation.
5. Use a car wash. Washing your car by hand can easily use 100 gallons of water, and takes a lot of time and effort, as well. Commercial car washes average 40 gallons or less!
6. Trap rainwater. Collect the water from summer rainstorms by getting a water barrel. You can reuse this water for your garden. Green roofs, rain gardens, and other water-saving techniques are called green infrastructure and go a long way towards saving this most precious resource. More and more landowners and city governments are choosing to invest in these and other innovative strategies as ways to save water, reduce pollution, and save millions, and even billions, in costs for new water tanks, tunnels, and other traditional water infrastructures.

SERVPRO of Boise is here to help you with all your home and business needs. Call us today at (208) 375-0300, or visit our website: SERVPRO of Boise

Secure Flood Insurance Before the Potential for Spring Flooding Occurs

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

BOISE, ID – It takes only a few inches of water to cause thousands of dollars in property damage.  As spring temperatures begin to rise, so does the potential for area flooding. The Idaho Department of Insurance (DOI) urges consumers to protect their homes and families by securing flood insurance long before the area snow-pack begins to melt and seasonal rains occur.

Consumers should be aware that only flood insurance covers flood damage, while most standard homeowner’s policies do not. Also, flood policies typically mandate a 30-day waiting period before coverage becomes effective. DOI Director Dean Cameron says flooding does not have to be a “catastrophic event” to cause severe financial issues.

“Many consumers remain unprotected, but you don’t have to live in a flood zone or high-risk area to suffer major flood damage,” said Cameron.  “Don’t get caught off guard. Meet with a licensed agent to discuss and review your coverage now.”

What to know about floods and flood insurance coverage:

• The time to prepare is now; where it can rain, it can flood.
• Flood insurance is affordable and anyone can purchase it.
• FEMA statistics estimate more than 20 percent of flood claims result from properties considered outside high-risk areas.
• Only about 12 percent of U.S. homeowners have flood insurance.
• Flood damage costs exceed $8 billion annually nationwide.

Three Ways to Avoid Water Damage When You're Not Home

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

No matter what time of year it is, if you’re going to be away from your home for an extended amount of time – even just overnight – it’s a smart idea to turn off your water until you return home. Why? Because it doesn’t take very much water to cause a whole lot of damage! If your pipes freeze and burst while you’re gone, or if a washer hose ruptures or a supply line leaks, major water damage can occur! There are a few things you can do before heading out of town to give you peace of mind when it comes to the state of your home’s water.

Shut off the Main Water Valve

Your safest bet is to turn off the main water valve. Make sure the adults in your home know where the main shutoff valve is and know how to turn it on and off. (Knowing this will also come in handy if you’re at home during an emergency, so the water can quickly be shut off!) Locate the main water valve near your water meter usually located in the basement, near the front of the house, attached to the outside of the home’s exterior, or in an underground box in the yard.

There are two types of main shutoff valves. You’ll probably find what’s called a “gate valve” if you’re in an older home. Turn the rounded handles a certain number of times to open or close the valve. The “ball valve” is more common today. Turn the lever-like handle 90 degrees in order to turn the water on or off. If this valve crosses the pipes, it’s closed; if it’s parallel to them, it’s open.

Test shutting off the valve ahead of time by locating the main shutoff valve, turning it off, and running a faucet. If no water comes out, you’ve successfully turned off your home’s water supply!

Turn off Individual Water Valves

But what if you’re leaving during the summer and you can’t turn off your entire water supply because you have automatic sprinklers? If this is the case, you can simply turn off individual water valves to the water sources with the highest damage risk. These sources include the dishwasher, washing machine, and ice-maker. Individual shutoff valves tend to be located directly on the supply lines leading to most appliances, including toilets and faucets. Usually, this will be a small rounded handle that you’ll turn clockwise. Doing this will turn off the water to that source. (Take note that the ice-maker shutoff valve may be under the sink or in the basement!)

If you’ll be shutting off individual water supplies, it’s a good idea to kill two birds with one stone and check your supply lines themselves. They can become weak over time, resulting in leaks, cracks, or bulging. If you notice these or other forms of corrosion, you may want to repair or replace them before leaving.

Turn off Water Supply to Outdoor Faucets

If you’re leaving during the colder seasons, it’s a good idea to also shut off the water to your outdoor faucets as well. Their shutoff valve will most likely be located inside your house. Shut it off before you head out the door. Once you’ve shut off the valve, turn on the exterior faucet to drain any excess water. And remember to detach the hoses, too!

If you follow these simple steps, you can rest easy knowing your home won’t be at risk of water damage while you’re away!

Water Damage and Mold Prevention

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

By: Ryan M.

Taking proper steps to dry your property quickly and effectively is easy with the help of restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Boise. It is important to create and monitor a dry environment to prevent mold causing further secondary damage and potential health issues.  Although most insurance companies act quickly and help make decisions there can sometimes be unforeseen delays. Allow SERVPRO to provide preventative emergency service steps right away to prevent secondary damage.

Maintaining your home and protecting your family from avoidable diseases are two good reasons to assess the potential impact of mold on your home. Most people wait until mold contamination is very high before acting to correct this problem. Mold is tough and all it really needs to continue growing is moisture and a food source. Mold can even begin to turn up in a matter of days. We suggest you take these 4 preventative steps to ensure you are tackling a problem before it gets out of hand.

1. Maintain your property by performing any necessary repairs and maintenance.

2. React quickly to pipe leaks and moisture infiltrations.

3. Let us help you dry the moisture quickly (within 24-48 hours) – do not wait!

4. Contact SERVPRO to evaluate your property to see if professional structural drying is required.

Classification of Water Damage in Your Home

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

In this post, we will be explaining some of the basics of water damage and how it can affect your home and health. Water damage is the leading culprit when it comes to property damage and restoration service needs.

Now, this actually surprises a lot of folks, when they hear water damage they usually imagine a flood from a nearby river, a natural disaster etc. While events as such do occur, there are more common ways for water damage to affect your home, including:

• appliance leaks from your fridge, ice machine, washing machines, etc.
• toilet overflows
• sinks and bath/shower overflows or left running without attendance
• broken/leaky water pipes within walls and ceilings
• drainage issues around the property
• roof leaks and compromised exterior
• rain/wind storms

As you can see, water damage can originate from either internal or external sources and once it gets into your home it is important to know what kind of water you are dealing with.

What do we mean by what kind of water? Well in the restoration industry we recognize water in THREE different categories:

• CATEGORY 1 – Also referred to as “Clean Water”, this means that the water originated from a sanitary source and does not generally pose a risk to our health.
• CATEGORY 2 – This could also be referred to as “Grey Water”, meaning it contains some contamination and would not be sanitary enough for human consumption, posing a health risk if ingested.
• CATEGORY 3 – Commonly known as “Black Water”, this is water that is grossly contaminated and could contain disease-causing organisms, pathogens, and other harmful materials.

Now you know the 3 different categories of water and how it can enter into your home. Each of these different categories of water damage comes with their own do's and don'ts on how to deal with them. Restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Boise have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience to handle any water damage emergency. 

Assessing Water Damage

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

By: Layton C. 

Whenever a homeowner has a water loss, it is important to understand the damage the water can do, and how to asses it properly. One of the first things that SERVPRO does after meeting the homeowner is to inspect all affected materials in all affected areas. This allows us to gauge what is wet and how wet the material actually is. SERVPRO technicians use moisture meters and thermal cameras to map out the wet area. Most homeowners don’t own this equipment so they may not be able to see the full damage, but it is possible to get a general idea if one knows what to look for and understands how water travels.

Having the appropriate equipment and tools are essential for the quality of work performed. We see many homeowners extract water with a wet vac and place office fan’s around the wet area. This is a great start to prevent further damage, but the equipment used will not have the same efficiency as ours. When SERVPRO needs to remove a material we are trained on removing it in a specific way. We want to make the repair as easy and as quick as possible. 

Depending on what material we are trying to dry and the saturation level of the material could call for a specialized drying plan with more equipment than the traditional box fan and dehumidifier. Our goal is to get all 10’s with the customer satisfaction survey. Assessing the damage correctly and having the correct equipment is a must.  Meeting the expectations makes the mitigation process faster and cheaper.

Flooding Tips

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Turn Around, Don't Drown!

Failing to evacuate flooded areas, entering flood waters, or remaining after a flood has passed can result in injury or death. Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Floods may:

• Result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems.
• Develop slowly or quickly - flash floods can come with no warning.
• Cause outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings, and create landslides.

IF YOU ARE UNDER A FLOOD WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don't Drown!
  • Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
• Determine how best to protect yourself based on the type of flooding.
  • Evacuate if told to do so.
  • Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
  • Stay where you are.

HOW TO SAY SAFE WHEN A FLOOD THREATENS

(Prepare NOW)

• Know types of flood risk in your area. Visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center for information.

• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

• If flash flooding is a risk in your location, then monitor potential signs, such as heavy rain.

• Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response.

• Gather supplies in case you have to leave immediately, or if services are cut off. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets. Obtain extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment.

• Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. It typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect and can protect the life you've built. Homeowner’s policies do not cover flooding. Get flood coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)

• Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies.

• Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. De-clutter drains and gutters. Install check valves. Consider a sump pump with a battery.

(Survive DURING)

• Depending on where you are, and the impact and the warning time of flooding, go to the safe location that you previously identified.
• If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
• Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.
• Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown!
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.
• If your vehicle is trapped in rapidly moving water, then stay inside. If water is rising inside the vehicle, then seek refuge on the roof.
• If trapped in a building, then go to its highest level. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising floodwater. Go on the roof only if necessary. Once there, signal for help.

(Be Safe AFTER)

• Listen to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Avoid driving, except in emergencies.
• Snakes and other animals may be in your house. Wear heavy gloves and boots during clean up.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock.
• Avoid wading in floodwater, which can contain dangerous debris and be contaminated. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
• Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows.

Secure Flood Insurance Before the Potential for Spring Flooding Occurs

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

BOISE, ID – It takes only a few inches of water to cause thousands of dollars in property damage.  As spring temperatures begin to rise, so does the potential for area flooding. The Idaho Department of Insurance (DOI) urges consumers to protect their homes and families by securing flood insurance long before area snow-pack begins to melt and seasonal rains occur.

Consumers should be aware that only flood insurance covers flood damage, while most standard homeowner’s policies do not. Also, flood policies typically mandate a 30-day waiting period before coverage becomes effective. DOI Director Dean Cameron says flooding does not have to be a “catastrophic event” to cause severe financial issues.

“Many consumers remain unprotected, but you don’t have to live in a flood zone or high-risk area to suffer major flood damage,” said Cameron.  “Don’t get caught off guard. Meet with a licensed agent to discuss and review your coverage now.”

What to know about floods and flood insurance coverage:

• The time to prepare is now; where it can rain, it can flood.
• Flood insurance is affordable and anyone can purchase it.
• FEMA statistics estimate more than 20 percent of flood claims result from properties considered outside high-risk areas.
• Only about 12 percent of U.S. homeowners have flood insurance.
• Flood damage costs exceed $8 billion annually nationwide.

For information on flood insurance policies, visit the federal National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or call 800-427-4661. 

Treasure Valley Water Damage Prevention

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

It is possible to prevent and mitigate water damage by taking the proper precautions before a flood. Safeguard your home against heavy rain, natural disasters, frozen pipes, and water dams by following the suggestions below.

Water Damage and Flooding Prevention

• Make sure gutters and downspouts stay clear by checking them regularly and removing any blockages.
• Anchor any fuel tanks.
• Install back-flow valves or standpipes to prevent sewer lines from backing up.
• Elevate your washer, dryer, water heater, oil tank, furnace, and electrical wiring on concrete blocks. If you’re unable to raise an item, anchor it and protect it with a flood-wall or shield.
• Install a sump pump system if you have below-grade floors.
• Landscape with plants and vegetation that resist soil erosion.
• Store irreplaceable family items and important documents in elevated areas of your home, avoiding the basement.
• Install a flood-detection device, usually in your basement, that sounds an alarm when it senses water.
• Create a safety kit with drinking water, canned food, first aid, blankets, a radio, and a flashlight.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

When water freezes, it expands. If ice forms in your water pipes, it can shatter pipe seals or the pipes themselves, sending water pouring through your home or business. If overnight temperatures outdoors drop below freezing, unprotected pipes can burst. To prevent that from happening, SERVPRO suggests the following to prevent water damage:

• Insulate pipes in basements, crawl spaces and the attic where the temperatures might drop below freezing.
• Seal any openings that allow cold air inside – like those around dryer vents, electrical wiring or pipes.
• In areas of potential freezing, have the water drip into the sink to keep the flow moving.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks and closets where pipes are located to let in the heat.
• Keep doors ajar between heated and unheated rooms.
• Disconnect all hoses from outside faucets. Cover outside faucets connected to the house.
• Know where to turn off water to the house. Show everyone in the house where it is located and how to shut it off.
• If the house will be unheated for a period of time, turn off water at the meter and open all faucets to drain pipes. Flush all toilets and add antifreeze to toilet tanks.
• If on vacation, keep heat in your home no lower than 55 degrees and have someone check in daily.

Ice Dam Prevention

During the winter, SERVPRO sees damage to homes and businesses caused by ice dams on rooftops. Ice dams occur when heavy snow buildup melts during the day and then refreezes when temperatures drop overnight. It is common for the melted water and ice to work its way under the shingles until the water eventually enters the attic, causing damage to the ceilings, walls, and furnishings.

• Make sure soffits' and attic spaces are properly insulated and vented.
• Inspect gutters and downspouts; clean them out so water can run unimpeded.
• Use electric de-icing cables on the roof to keep ice from forming.
• Install de-icing cables in gutters and downspouts.
• Call an electrical contractor for information on de-icing systems and proper installation.

Once Ice Dams have occurred, combating the destructive effects becomes more difficult. For help removing ice dams and restoring any damage they might have caused, call a water damage restoration company, like SERVPRO. In the meantime:

• Never use an ax or shovel to remove ice. You could cause damage to your roof.
• Avoid climbing on the roof to prevent accidental injury.

Hopefully you never fall victim to a flooded basement. However, it is one of the more common property damages we deal with in Idaho. Many things can lead to a flooded basement, here are a few of the most common causes:

• Rain Fall
• Snow Melt
• Leaky Pipe
• Burst Pipe
• Bathroom Leaks
• Improper Drainage or Grading
• Sump Pump Backup or Failure

For more detailed information regarding safety planning and flood safety, visit www.ready.gov/floods.

Three Ways to Avoid Water Damage When You're Not Home

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

No matter what time of year it is, if you’re going to be away from your home for an extended amount of time – even just over night – it’s a smart idea to turn off your water until you return home. Why? Because it doesn’t take very much water to cause a whole lot of damage! If your pipes freeze and burst while you’re gone, or if a washer hose ruptures or a supply line leaks, major water damage can occur! There are a few things you can do before heading out of town to give you peace of mind when it comes to the state of your home’s water.

Shut off the Main Water Valve

Your safest bet is to turn off the main water valve. Make sure the adults in your home know where the main shutoff valve is and know how to turn it on and off. (Knowing this will also come in handy if you’re at home during an emergency, so the water can quickly be shut off!) Locate the main water valve near your water meter usually located in the basement, near the front of the house, attached to the outside of the home’s exterior, or in an underground box in the yard.

There are two types of main shutoff valves. You’ll probably find what’s called a “gate valve” if you’re in an older home. Turn the rounded handles a certain number of times to open or close the valve. The “ball valve” is more common today. Turn the lever-like handle 90 degrees in order to turn the water on or off. If this valve crosses the pipes, it’s closed; if it’s parallel to them, it’s open.

Test shutting off the valve ahead of time by locating the main shutoff valve, turning it off, and running a faucet. If no water comes out, you’ve successfully turned off your home’s water supply!

Turn off Individual Water Valves

But what if you’re leaving during the summer and you can’t turn off your entire water supply because you have automatic sprinklers? If this is the case, you can simply turn off individual water valves to the water sources with the highest damage risk. These sources include the dishwasher, washing machine, and ice-maker. Individual shutoff valves tend to be located directly on the supply lines leading to most appliances, including toilets and faucets. Usually, this will be a small rounded handle that you’ll turn clockwise. Doing this will turn off the water to that source. (Take note that the ice-maker shutoff valve may be under the sink or in the basement!)

If you’ll be shutting off individual water supplies, it’s a good idea to kill two birds with one stone and check your supply lines themselves. They can become weak over time, resulting in leaks, cracks, or bulging. If you notice these or other forms of corrosion, you may want to repair or replace them before leaving.

Turn off Water Supply to Outdoor Faucets

If you’re leaving during the colder seasons, it’s a good idea to also shut off the water to your outdoor faucets as well. Their shutoff valve will most likely be located inside your house. Shut it off before you head out the door. Once you’ve shut off the valve, turn on the exterior faucet to drain any excess water. And remember to detach the hoses, too!

If you follow these simple steps, you can rest easy knowing your home won’t be at risk of water damage while you’re away!

How SERVPRO Can Help Your Business Prepare for Large Loss Water Damage

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

As a business owner, you are always thinking about the future, and you know that disasters are something you need to be prepared for. When disaster strikes, possessions are often ruined, and the structures of businesses can be negatively affected. Staff can become injured or find themselves in dangerous situations, and these are scenarios you want to be able to prevent or at least be ready for. A professional damage restoration company can be an important and welcomed resource during times like these; such companies are able to complete all necessary repairs in a timely and efficient manner as well as keep you and your workforce out of harm’s way.

While disastrous situations can rarely be foreseen, planning ahead in preparation for any possible commercial water damage will help you be prepared to handle such an event. During extreme weather, some areas of your business are going to be more apt to experience damage than others. For example, low-lying areas like basements, cellars, and parking lots are most likely to experience storm damage.

Planning ahead in these areas will help:

• Basements and cellars should be inspected ahead of wet weather since they have a number of easy entry points for water. If there is heavy rainfall during inclement weather, or if the building is near a body of water such as a lake or river, they are going to be in danger. Let the SERVPRO of Boise professionals look for cracks in the foundation, ceiling, and walls of these areas. Handling the aftermath of flooding and storm damage can be very expensive, but is an event that can be avoided if you plan ahead by enlisting the help of our team.
• A damaged roof, either from weather or fire, is susceptible to water damage, and the areas underneath it will suffer. If rain gutters have not been properly maintained, you may experience some problems stemming from standing water, as well. SERVPRO is skilled and experienced when it comes to maintaining our clients’ property, and we can help you be ready in the event of large loss water damage.
• If areas such as entryways, windows, and doors are not properly sealed against extreme wet conditions, large loss water damage is a definite danger. We can help you make sure they are free of standing water and debris, as well, if flooding occurs. Proper planning in this area can prevent injuries and costly repairs.
• Our professionals can help ensure that all areas around your buildings are kept free from flammable materials and that all plants and trees are trimmed well on a regular basis to prevent fires from spreading if they occur.
• State law requires that you post an evacuation plan in a visible place for your staff and customers. Make sure that your employees understand it and know how to carefully guide clientele to safe areas should a disaster occur. Have a phone tree established so that all employees are alerted to important information whether they are at work or at home. The SERVPRO of Boise team can help in creating a plan.

Our team here at SERVPRO of Boise is ready to help in case of disaster and large loss water damages, and the repairs your business may need in the aftermath. We are also experts in fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial restoration, and much more!

Classification of Water Damage in Your Home

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

In this post we will be explaining some of the basics of water damage and how it can affect your home and health. Water damage is the leading culprit when it comes to property damage and restoration service needs.

Now this actually surprises a lot of folks, when they hear water damage they usually imagine a flood from a nearby river, a natural disaster etc. While events as such do occur, there are more common ways for water damage to affect your home, including:

• appliance leaks from you fridge, ice machine, washing machines, etc.
• toilet overflows
• sinks and bath/shower overflows or left running without attendance
• broken/leaky water pipes within walls and ceilings
• drainage issues around the property
• roof leaks and compromised exterior
• rain/wind storms

As you can see, water damage can originate from either internal or external sources and once it gets into your home it is important to know what kind of water you are dealing with.

What do we mean by what kind of water? Well in the restoration industry we recognize water in THREE different categories:

• CATEGORY 1 – Also referred to as “Clean Water”, this means that the water originated from a sanitary source and does not generally pose a risk to our health.
• CATEGORY 2 – This could also be referred to as “Grey Water”, meaning it contains some contamination and would not be sanitary enough for human consumption, posing a health risk if ingested.
• CATEGORY 3 – Commonly known as “Black Water”, this is water that is grossly contaminated and could contain disease causing organisms, pathogens, and other harmful materials.

Now you know the 3 different categories of water and how it can enter into your home. Each of these different categories of water damage comes with their own do's and don'ts on how to deal with them. Restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Boise have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience to handle any water damage emergency. 

Summer Water Saving Tips

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Every state is experiencing the effects of drought, and saving water is on everyone’s mind these days. We waste a lot of water; our showers are too long, and we are often obsessed with an emerald green lawn. We need to change the way we handle and view water and leave behind the outdated and inefficient water management systems of the past.

Here are some tips that will help you save water this summer. Your water bill will be reduced, and you can save yourself some time into the bargain as well as doing some good for the Earth.

1. Water your yard in the cool parts of the day. Water evaporates more quickly when it’s hot, so run your irrigation system while it’s most likely to stay with your lawn. Make sure you are not watering your sidewalk or your driveway, too. A drip system works quite well in this respect. Replacing your thirsty lawn with a drought tolerant garden would be a great way to save water, and it won’t have to be mowed every week!
2. Check for leaky toilets. Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank. If the color shows up in the bowl, your tank is leaking, and could be wasting up to 100 gallons of water a day!
3. Take shorter showers. Trimming just two minutes off of your showers can save up to 1700 gallons of water a year. One way to do this is to turn off the shower while you shave or soap up. Install water-efficient shower heads, toilets, and faucets for a savings of thousands of gallons per year as well.
4. Cover the pool. Make sure the water in your pool stays there by covering it when you are not using it. This will prevent water loss by evaporation.
5. Use a car wash. Washing your car by hand can easily use 100 gallons of water, and takes a lot of time and effort, as well. Commercial car washes average 40 gallons or less!
6. Trap rain water. Collect the water from summer rain storms by getting a water barrel. You can reuse this water for your garden. Green roofs, rain gardens, and other water-saving techniques are called green infrastructure and go a long way towards saving this most precious resource. More and more landowners and city governments are choosing to invest in these and other innovative strategies as ways to save water, reduce pollution, and save millions, and even billions, in costs for new water tanks, tunnels, and other traditional water infrastructures.

SERVPRO of Boise is here to help you with all your home and business needs. Call us today at (208) 375-0300, or visit our website: SERVPRO of Boise

What are Plumbers Saying?

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

As a homeowner you should never underestimate the seriousness of drainage issues. Plumbers have weighed in and have given their expert opinion on what causes these issues and some tips on how to avoid them. Here are the four things to look for.

1. Recurring Clogs- If a clog returns, chances are that there is a deeper clog that needs to be looked at. 
2. Multiple Clogged drains-If you have several clogged drains, you may have a clog in your main drain.
3. Foul odor-Persistent sewer odors coming from your drain or drains can be a major sign of a drainage issue, don't ignore these smells. 
4. Flooding-One of the worst problems associated with clog drains is sewage backup. Getting a professional on the site as soon as you can will help you avoid a big problem.

Routine maintenance is key to keeping those drains open. Use drain catchers or less toilet paper. Remind your small children that toilets are not for playing in. Also, make sure that you run plenty of water into the garbage disposal after use. Just those few things help a lot. If you ever have water damage, call SERVPRO of Boise with your water needs. We will be there to clean up the mess those clogged drains made. 

Water Damage From a Burst Pipe

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

This home had a pipe burst in the ceiling causing damage to both floors of the home.

Water Damage in Boise from a Burst Pipe Should be Promptly Addressed

A burst pipe can cause significant water damage in a home.  Water leakage can also be terribly expensive, possibly causing personal schedule changes and insurance claims. Additionally, mildew and mold can become a problem long after the initial damage. Thankfully, there are experts in water damage that can help the problems from a burst pipe be much more manageable.

Leaking Pipes

Pay attention to leaking pipes! Diligence can minimize the collateral damage from a burst pipe. Pay attention to where water has leaked. The water and moisture may have already caused a small amount of damage. Call a professional to determine the best course of action as soon as possible. An inexperienced homeowner attempting to fix the problem may just make it worse.

Preventing Structural Damage

The possibility of structural damage is the key reason homeowners should be extra vigilant regarding the plumbing in their homes. Structural damage may be difficult to spot. You should always contact an experienced contractor such as SERVPRO Boise to assess possible structural damage from leaky or burst pipes.

Mold Hazards

Mold is another serious problem that stems from water damage. Mold can be particularly vexing to homeowners. Because mold is living, it can grow and fill large portions of a home without the homeowner being aware. Eventually, mold can lead to structural damage. Mold can be in basements, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Mold removal can be a very difficult task once a foothold has been secured.

Additional Considerations

The above factors illustrate how complicated the ramifications of a burst pipe can be. A homeowner should not attempt to deal with any of these issues without the assistance of an expert well versed in water damage repair and mold remediation. The skills needed to deal effectively with mold, structural damage, and leaking pipes are beyond the average homeowner. Homeowners that attempt these tasks quite often worsen the existing problems. It is always best to hire an expert to inspect the damage after experiencing a burst pipe. SERVPRO Boise has the experience as a full-service water restoration company to rectify and repair all the problems related to a burst 
pipe.  Solving the problem of a burst pipe correctly will protect the investment of your home for years to come.

Water Damage Recovery Defined

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

This garage was flooded due to a water heater bursting

Water Damage Recovery Defined

It is very important to make sure water damage recovery is done properly when you are coping with the consequences of a flood or house fire. There is a lot that goes into water damage recovery, and you should understand how crucial it is do know all about the possible dangers of events that could take place when you are going through the recovery process in your house. It is important to understand that you should not be attempting to take on the process all by yourself; you should always enlist the help of a professional restoration company. This is because a professional company will have the needed expertise, experience, and equipment to go through the process in a safe and effective manner. When you are trying to figure out the ideal way to go about the water damage recovery process, it may be beneficial to be knowledgeable about what it entails.

The Water Damage Recovery Process Entails Removing Excess Water from Your House

One of the key parts of water damage recovery is that the process entails removing and cleaning up any excess water that is in your house after a flood or house fire has taken place. Within 24 hours of either of these events, mildew and mold can potentially start to grow and thrive in your home. As such, it is extremely important that you start cleaning up the excess water right away. If you do not do this, the secondary damage (mildew, mold, bacteria, etc.) that can develop can actually cause more destruction to your home than the original flood or house fire did. There are several steps involved in cleaning up water damage that is in your house, and among the most crucial of these steps is drying up the excess water, so that you stop any growth of mildew and mold. When you hire a professional company for this purpose, they will use industrial-grade dehumidifiers to cause the excess water in your house to evaporate, and then begin the repairs that are needed on your house. Make sure to remember that you should enlist the help of a professional when you are dealing with water damage. You should not enter your home after a flood or house fire without the approval of a professional, as you do not know if it is safe to do so without this.

The Water Damage Recovery Process Entails Reparation and Restoration of Your House

The SERVPRO Boise water damage recovery process involves not only the cleaning and removal of excess water, but the repairing of areas in your home and restoration of the building to how it was before the event. Your home may have structural and/or electrical damage if the water damage is severe. Before you can safely move back in, a professional restoration company will need to do the appropriate repairs, which could potentially take several weeks or several months if the damage is severe. In order to figure out which repairs need to be done, it is important to hire a professional company, who can give you an accurate assessment.

When your home needs to go through a water damage recovery process, it is important that you consult a professional restoration company, because they will have all of the resources that will enable them to take on the task. Additionally, they can have several different contractors on site at the same time to make sure that your home will be safe for you to enter. If you would like to know more about these companies, contact a professional company with any questions you may have.

Water Damage Restoration

Basement flooding or storm damage doesn't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. We respond to your residential or commercial water removal and cleanup needs. Our fast response time and advanced drying methods help prevent secondary damage and mold. Common causes of water damage are:

• Flooding caused by severe weather
• Plumbing leaks
• Sink, bathtub or toilet overflow
• Sewage backup

Call SERVPRO for Water Damage Repair Services in Boise

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

You never want to discover a water damage in your home, but the unfortunate reality is that many homeowners will have to deal with this problem at some point. How you handle the water damage is important because a fast response may minimize the chance of mold growth in your home. There are a few steps that you can take when you discover water damage in your home.

Stop the Flow of Water

In some instances, you will not be able to stop the flow of water into the property. For example, if there is a major flood related to a severe thunderstorm, floodwaters may rise all around the property, and you may not have any way to stop the flow of water. On the other hand, if the flood is related to a damaged pipe in the home, you may be able to turn off the main water valve to stop the flow of water. You can also call a plumber so that the repair work on the pipe can be completed and they can assist you in finding the source of the leak. 

Dry Out the Property

If you have water damage in your home, your next step should be to remove the water and dry out the property. These steps need to be taken quickly to help prevent the possibility of mold growth in the home. SERVPRO of Boise offers professional remediation services to help you dry out the property the correct way. Our team of professionals will extract the water and place equipment to properly dry the property to it’s pre-damaged conditions.

Call for Professional Assistance

No one wants to deal with water damage in their home with moisture that can lead to mold growth. Professional water damage remediation is available to help you overcome the damage in your home quickly. SERVPRO of Boise  is the company to contact when you discover water damage in your home. SERVPRO of Boise is a local company that offers an immediate response to requests for service in the community. Call us today at (208) 375-0300 for 24-hour assistance!

Water Damage in a Basement

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen in any area of your home. However, the basement offers its own unique challenges when it comes to water damages. The most common type of water damage in the basement results from broken water pipes. The first step is to turn off the water at the main valve. You'll need to start cleaning up right away to prevent mold, mildew and bacteria from forming. 

It is important that you remove rugs, furniture and other items that have gotten wet. Take them outdoors where they can completely dry in the sun. Use a heavy-duty vacuum cleaner that is made especially for water cleanup. A submersible pump is a good tool to use if you can rent one. Use a powerful fan to finish drying the room. 

Choose a professional water restoration company like SERVPRO Boise. These types of companies have both the experience and the equipment to remove the water in basement. Call your insurance agent to see if your policy will cover water or flood damage. Water can seem behind walls and other places where major damage can occur. 

Water damage in the basement can also cause structural damage. If this is the case, it will cost a lot more money than simply hiring a restoration expert. Underground water seepage can cause the surrounding ground to shift. Evidence of this type of damage is found with cracks along the walls and ceilings.

Do not hire a carpet cleaning service to restore your basement. They may not have the experience, education or skill to complete the job right. Instead, look in your local yellow pages for an actual fire and water restoration company. Pay careful attention to the contract before you sign it. Most restoration companies will guarantee their work. 

Floods and water emergencies can happen to any homeowner. Be prepared for this type of emergency by choosing experts before you need them. A water emergency can occur in your utility room where your washer and dryer is found. Other common places include the dishwasher, refrigerator with ice maker and pipes underneath the house.

Know where your water main cutoff is located before an emergency. Turning off the water will prevent further damage while you wait for a professional restoration company to come to your home.

SERVPRO of Boise professionals provide fire and water damage restoration services. 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or commercial structure.

Risk Management Tip- Washing Machine Supply Hoses

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

Are you one of the many homeowners that are currently using black rubber supply hoses on your washing machine? Well then, “how lucky do you feel?”

Water damage from washing machines is one of the top five causes of claims to homeowners’ insurance companies. According to the Institute of Business and Home Safety, approximately 55% of all water damage claims caused by washing machines are as a result of water supply hoses that leaked or burst. These types of claims can be very costly with the average claim running to more than $6000.

In most homes, water will spew out of a burst hose at a rate of 6 ½ gallons per minute or hundreds of gallons in just one hour. Imagine how much water would flood your home if a burst hose is leaking while you are away from home on vacation or at work all day! 

Rubber supply hoses vs. stainless steel hoses? Rubber hoses are typically rated at 800 pounds per square inch (PSI) burst strength. However, stainless steel hoses are usually rated at 1500 (PSI) burst strength. They have a much lower failure rate compared to rubber supply hoses. Stainless steel hoses are also more heat resistant than rubber hoses.

Therefore, it is strongly suggested that you replace your black rubber hoses with stainless steel hoses. Stainless steels hoses cost about $25 - $30 for a pair of them. Seems like such a small investment to help avoid having massive water damage from a burst rubber hose.

Are your washing machine hoses a disaster waiting to happen?

What to do Before and After a Flood

5/15/2017 (Permalink)

With flood waters rising in Blaine County, Custer County and all around the Treasure Valley, we wanted to share some tips to keep you safe! Minimize the pain of hiring the wrong company after a flood devastates your home or business. 

What to do before a flood

• Create a detailed inventory of the contents of your home. 
• Secure original insurance documents in a safe place – preferably a bank safe deposit box – and keep copies in your home in an accessible place that is not subject to flooding.
• Call your insurance agent to learn how to report a flood claim. Let them know you will be using SERVPRO for water removal and remediation. 
• Set up an emergency contact address and phone number in the event you are unable to stay in your home – share this information with your insurance agent, your SERVPRO representative and your family.

What do to after a flood

• Call SERVPRO. Depending on the amount of flooding in your area, you want to make this call immediately to avoid a lengthy wait time. SERVPRO has national resources to handle multiple losses the right way. Contact your insurance agent and report the loss – have flood insurance policy information at the ready. 
• Separate damaged and undamaged property; do all you can to protect undamaged property.
• Make a list of damages for the adjuster – if you have prepared a home inventory, this should be easy. SERVPRO can also assist with inventory.
• Take photos of all damage, including water lines on walls and cabinetry.
• Make a list of any areas of structural damage you want to point out to the adjuster.
• SERVPRO can begin to dry out the building and your personal property once the adjuster has approved the work. 
• SERVPRO can provide a repair estimate for flood-damaged reconstruction. 

Beware of scams after a flood

• If you do not use a restoration company like SERVPRO, you may be at risk from scammers who travel to flood zones to prey on affected homeowners.
• We recommend you obtain bids from multiple contractors, and request at least three references. We have vetted our contractors and can offer referrals when needed. 
• Ask for proof of licenses, building permits, insurance, and bonding from contractors. 
• If you do hire a contractor, record the contractor’s license plate number and driver’s license number; check for complaints with the Better Business Bureau.
• Call SERVPRO (208) 375-0300 for any and all questions. Not every company has your best interest in mind. Hire a company with staying power like SERVPRO who isn't here today for the flood, gone tomorrow. 
• Contact: CONTACT US. Please note that you were referred via our blog. We'll get right back to you. Stay dry! 

Water Damage-What Happens When Left Untreated

9/26/2016 (Permalink)

Faster To Any Size Disaster

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

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (208) 375-0300

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 Boise

SERVPRO of Boise 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.

• Meet our Crew
• Certifications and Affiliations