Hardwood Floor Water Damage: The Top 5 Warning Signs

1/30/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals will do everything they can to save your hardwood floors after water damage!

Hardwood floor water damage can be hard to detect and can cause extensive damage if left untreated.

Water damage can wreak havoc on hardwood floors, leading to costly repairs and even complete replacement. Therefore, it's essential to be aware of the warning signs indicating that a hardwood floor has been damaged by water or moisture.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties are your go-to resource for hardwood floor repair if water damage occurs. We have put together the following blog post to educate you and describe the five telltale warning signs to look out for when it comes to hardwood floor water damage.

What is hardwood floor water damage?

Hardwood floor water damage occurs when water or moisture seeps into hardwood floors and affects the integrity of your floor. The wood can warp and swell when hardwood floors are exposed to excessive moisture for an extended period. 

Various sources, such as floods, heavy rainstorms, high humidity levels, plumbing leaks, and overwatered plants, can cause water damage. Looking for any signs of hardwood floor water damage is a good way of determining whether or not you have a more significant water damage problem on your property.

Five indications of hardwood floor water damage

Now that you know a bit more about hardwood floor water damage, let's take a look at the five warning signs that indicate your hardwood floor requires repairs:

1. Discoloration or staining on the wood: Hardwood floors coming into contact with excessive moisture can cause discoloration or staining. Discoloration can range from dark spots to even a complete change in the original color of the hardwood.
2. Warping, cupping, or buckling: These are some of the more obvious signs that hardwood floor water damage has occurred. Water damage can cause hardwood floors to warp, cup, or buckle due to moisture swelling and expanding the wood. 
3. Softening of the hardwood: Another sign of hardwood floor water damage is that the hardwood can become soft when touched. Softening of the hardwood is due to the moisture causing the wood to swell and become weaker than it should be.
4. Swelling or separation between boards: Excessive moisture can also cause hardwood floors to swell and lead to separation between boards. Swelling or separation is another sign that hardwood floor water damage has taken place.
5. Musty odors: Finally, hardwood floors with water damage can emit a musty smell that indicates the presence of moisture or mold growth in the cracks or beneath the hardwood floor.

These are the top five warning signs to watch out for when it comes to hardwood floor water damage. If you notice any of these signs, you must call a water restoration company to get the hardwood floor repaired or replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage. They can also determine if your property is at risk from further water intrusion. 

Tips for preventing future hardwood floor water damage

Before hardwood floor water damage has the chance to occur, there are a few things you can do to make sure your hardwood floors stay in good shape:

• Make sure to keep hardwood floors clean and dry at all times. Vacuum regularly, mop up spills as soon as they happen, use a dehumidifier if necessary, and clean hardwood floors with the appropriate hardwood floor cleaner.
• Check hardwood floors regularly for signs of water damage, such as discoloration or staining on the wood, warping, cupping, or buckling, softening of the wood, swelling or separation between boards, and musty odors.
• When you notice hardwood floor water damage, contact a professional water restoration company to help you with the repairs and get your hardwood floors back in good condition.

Following these tips can help prevent hardwood floor water damage from occurring in the first place. Still, if hardwood floor water damage has already happened, the professionals at SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties are here to help. We specialize in hardwood floor water damage repair and replacement, so don't hesitate to reach out if you require hardwood floor water damage services.

Wrapping up

Today we discussed hardwood floor water damage, the warning signs to look out for, and how to prevent hardwood floor water damage in the future. If hardwood floor water damage has already occurred to your property, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties for help.

SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties is a professional water damage repair company that can help you get your hardwood floors back in good condition. When you contact us for water restoration repairs, we will:

• Inspect the hardwood floors and assess the damage
• Apply specialized hardwood floor drying solutions
• Repair or replace hardwood floors as needed
• Sanitize hardwood floors to prevent mold growth

With our help, you can trust that we will restore your hardwood floors to their original condition. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us today for more information and help with hardwood floor water damage.

4 Ways Kitchen Water Damage Can Cause Ruin In Your Home

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 to combat water damage!

Call SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties as soon as you discover kitchen water damage.

Water damage can occur in any room of your home, but kitchen water damage is one of the most common because the kitchen is a high-traffic area where accidents are bound to happen.

Water damage in the kitchen can be a huge hassle. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also lead to further damage if not dealt with properly. Therefore, if kitchen water damage occurs in your home, it is crucial to take action immediately to minimize the damage.

If you have experienced kitchen water damage, don't worry—we are here to help. In this blog post, we will discuss how experts restore your kitchen to its original condition and provide information on choosing a restoration company that will help you get the job done quickly and efficiently!

What is water damage?

Water can damage your home in several ways, including:

1. Ruining furniture, floors, and other possessions
2. Causing mold and mildew to grow
3. Damaging electrical wiring
4. Creating a dangerous environment due to bacteria growth

The three categories of water damage are determined by the potential for bacteria in the floodwater. 

• Category 1 water damage is the cleanest. A broken pipe or leaking appliance often causes this type of water damage.
• Category 2 water damage—called "gray water" because it may contain bacteria—can come from a toilet or dishwasher.
• Category 3 water damage is the most contaminated, often caused by sewage backup or floodwater.

What can cause kitchen water damage?

Many things can cause kitchen water damage, including:

• A leaking dishwasher
• A leaking sink
• A clogged kitchen drain
• A broken pipe in the kitchen

Recently, we encountered kitchen water damage because the water line to a refrigerator ruptured. The event damaged the hardwood floors in the kitchen and leaked into the basement, requiring extensive drywall replacement. Luckily, the property owners contacted us within hours, limiting their risk for mold growth.

While the above example did take time to fix, the entire situation could have been made worse if they weren't at home to catch the leak (for example, if they were on vacation). Of course, we'd have to include our mold specialists in the restoration.

How do experts restore a kitchen to its original condition after water damage?

The first step in the water damage restoration process is to assess the damage and determine the best course of action. A professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties always starts with an estimate. 

Next, we must remove the water from the kitchen with a pump or a wet/dry vacuum. The furniture and appliances in the kitchen must also be removed and dried, along with the walls and floor. Typically, this drying is done with a dehumidifier. Once the kitchen is dry, it is ready for repair back to its original condition.

How can you choose the right restoration company for your kitchen water damage needs?

When water damage occurs in your kitchen, it is important to choose a restoration company that will help you get the job done quickly and efficiently.

When choosing a water damage restoration company, ensure they have experience and expertise in kitchen water damage restoration. The company should also have a quick response time, beginning the restoration process as soon as possible. Also, check that the company is licensed and has insurance. Finally, the company should have excellent customer service so you can be assured of quality service.

SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties is here for the residents of Georgia who experience water damage or any other property disasters. We have technicians available 24/7 and can be on your property within hours. So give us a call, and we'll be there to help you out, making it "Like it never even happened."

Water Heater Burst? 5 Simple Steps for Effective Recovery

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are ready to help you combat water damage!

Has a water heater burst flooded your basement?

If you've ever had a water heater burst, you know that it can cause massive water damage and leave your basement in shambles. A burst water heater can dump gallons of water into your home in minutes, and the resulting mess can be overwhelming.

If this happens to you, there are some steps you can take to minimize the damage and get your life back to normal as soon as possible. The most important? Working with a water damage restoration professional like SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties who has experience helping property owners recover from disaster.

This article will outline what to do if your water heater bursts and water damage restoration is necessary.

What to do if your water heater bursts

If you experience a water heater burst, take the following steps to mitigate the damage:

1. Shut off the water supply to the water heater. You can usually do this at the valve near the water heater.
2. Turn off the power to the water heater. This can usually be done at the breaker box.
3. Call a water damage restoration professional like SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties. We have experience helping homeowners recover from this type of disaster and can help you get your life back to normal as quickly as possible.
4. Call your insurance company. Be sure to document the damage with photos and video before you begin the cleanup process. Your insurance company will likely cover the cost of the water damage restoration.
5. Schedule a repair or replacement. Once the water damage has been mitigated, you'll need to schedule a repair or replacement for your water heater.

What type of water damage does a burst water heater cause?

A water heater burst can cause extensive basement water damage. The water can seep into the walls and floor and can cause mold growth and other structural damage. 

Wall water damage:

If the water heater is located in the basement, there is a good chance that the water will seep into the walls and cause damage. If this happens, you'll need to have the walls dried out and repaired by a professional.

Floor water damage:

The water can also seep into the floor, causing damage to the flooring material and potentially causing mold growth. If this happens, you'll need to have the flooring replaced or repaired.

Mold growth:

If the water is not dried out quickly enough, mold can start to grow. Mold creates a more complicated situation and must be removed by a professional.

Structural damage:

The water from a burst water heater can cause severe structural damage to your home. If the damage is severe, you may need to have the affected area rebuilt by a professional.

The water damage restoration process

A water damage restoration professional will first assess the damage and determine the best course of action. Often, they will begin by drying out the area and removing any water or moisture. They may also use special equipment to detect any hidden moisture that could lead to mold growth.

Next, they will begin the cleanup process. This can involve removing furniture and other belongings from the area, cleaning up any water or mud, and disinfecting the area.

Finally, they will work with you to schedule a repair or replacement for your water heater. Then, with the help of a professional, you can get back to normal as quickly as possible.

Trust SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties when you have a water heater burst!

Whenever an unexpected water emergency arises on your property, it is crucial to get in touch with a water damage restoration expert who can minimize your risk for mold growth. Then, take pictures of the situation—this evidence is helpful for insurance claims.

While a water heater burst can cause a lot of damage, it doesn't have to ruin your life. With the help of a water damage restoration professional like SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties, you can get your life back to normal quickly and without any hassle. We have experience helping homeowners recover from this type of disaster, and we're here to help you too! So give us a call today!

The Top 4 Causes of Basement Water Damage

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for emergency water damage services!

Basement water damage can strike any home at any time, without warning.

Your home is probably your most significant investment. So when water damage strikes, it can be a substantial financial blow. Basement water damage is one of the most common and costly types of water damage, and there are several potential causes.

The biggest issue with basement water damage is that it often goes unnoticed for so long that the damage is often severe when a property owner realizes there's a problem. 

The professionals at SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties have put together this blog post to discuss four of the most common causes of basement water damage so that you can prepare before it happens.

What is basement water damage?

Basement water damage is a severe issue that can cause a lot of damage to your home. The most common causes of basement water damage are:

1. Rainwater infiltration
2. Groundwater intrusion
3. Plumbing failures
4. Sewer backups

Rainwater infiltration

One of the most common causes of basement water damage is rainwater infiltration. If your basement is not properly waterproofed, water can seep through the walls and floors and cause extensive damage. You can do several things to help prevent this, such as installing proper gutters and downspouts to divert rainwater away from your home, as well as making sure your basement is properly sealed and waterproofed.

Groundwater intrusion

Another common cause of basement water damage is groundwater intrusion. Groundwater intrusion happens when water from the ground seeps into your basement through cracks in the foundation or walls. You can do several things to help prevent this, such as making sure your basement is properly sealed and waterproofed and installing a sump pump to remove any water that does seep in.

Plumbing failures

Another common cause of basement water damage is plumbing failures. Plumbing failures can happen when pipes leak or burst or appliances like washing machines or water heaters leak. If you have any plumbing in your basement, it's essential to ensure it is in good working order and that there are no leaks.

Sewer backups

The final common cause of basement water damage is sewer backups. Sewer backups can happen when the city sewers overflow or your home's sewer line becomes blocked. A blocked sewer line can cause raw sewage to back up into your basement, categorized as category three water damage to restoration professionals. However, there are several things you can do to help prevent this, such as having your sewer line cleaned regularly and installing a backwater valve.

Preventing basement water damage

Now that you are familiar with the four most common causes of basement water damage, you can take steps to prevent it. Some things you can do to prevent basement water damage are:

• Make sure your basement is properly sealed and waterproofed.
• Ensure gutters and downspouts divert rainwater away from your home.
• Install a sump pump to remove any water that does seep in.
• Clean the sewer line regularly.
• Install a backwater valve.

How SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties help you restore your basement water damage

If you are dealing with basement water damage, the professionals at SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties are here to help. We have the experience and training to quickly and effectively restore your basement to its pre-damaged state. When you choose to contact our team of water restorers, you will receive:

• An assessment and plan to restore the basement water damage
• 24/7 emergency services
• A team of experienced and IICRC-certified technicians
• The use of commercial-grade equipment and techniques

There is no need to combat water damage alone. Instead, contact SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties to work with you every step to make the process as smooth and seamless as possible.

The 5 Most Common Causes of a Skylight Leak

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for emergency skylight leak repairs!

Skylight leaks can cause water damage to your roof and interior walls.

Skylights are a beautiful addition to any home. They provide natural light and can help reduce energy costs. However, the SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties professionals relieve multiple water damage calls caused by skylights a year because they are one of the most common home leak sources.

A skylight leak can cause a lot of damage to your home, so it's essential to address the issue as soon as possible. In this blog post, we will discuss the five most common causes of a skylight leak:

1. Poor flashing installation
2. Improper roof ventilation
3. Ice dams
4. Damaged or missing shingles
5. Debris on the roof

Be sure to read to the end to find tips on preventing a skylight leak in your home!

What is a skylight leak

A skylight leak is a water leak that occurs around or in a skylight. Skylights are a common source of water leaks, as they can be susceptible to wind and rain damage. Skylight leaks can cause extensive water damage to your home, so it is essential to identify and fix the issue as soon as possible. In some cases, a professional can fix the skylight leak with a simple repair, but the skylight may need replacing in other cases.

The five most common causes of skylight leaks

Now that you know what a skylight leak is, let's discuss the five most common causes of skylight leaks:

1) Poor flashing installation

One of the most common causes of skylight leaks is poor flashing installation. Flashing is a material used to seal the area around the skylight to prevent water leaks. Skylights are usually installed with a metal flashing, but the flashing can become loose or damaged over time. If the flashing around your skylight is incorrectly installed or poorly maintained, it can allow water to leak through and cause damage to your home.

2) Improper roof ventilation

Another common cause of skylight leaks is improper roof ventilation. Ventilation is essential for all types of roofs, but it is significant for homes with skylights. Skylights can trap heat and moisture in your home, leading to condensation and leaks. If your home does not have proper ventilation, it can cause the area around your skylight to become moist and damaged.

3) Ice dams

Ice dams are another common cause of skylight leaks. Ice dams form when snow and ice melt on your roof and refreeze. As the ice dam grows, it can block the drainage around your skylight, causing water to back up and leak into your home.

4) Damaged or missing shingles

Damaged or missing shingles are another common cause of skylight leaks. Shingles protect your roof from the elements, but they can become damaged or loosen and fall off over time. If the shingles around your skylight are damaged or missing, it can allow water to leak through and cause damage to your home.

5) Debris on the roof

Debris on your roof, such as leaves and branches, can also cause skylight leaks. When debris accumulates on your roof, it can block the drainage around your skylight and cause water to back up and leak into your home.

How to prevent skylight leaks

Now that you know the five most common causes of skylight leaks, let's discuss how to prevent them:

1. Inspect and repair the flashing around your skylight regularly.
2. Make sure your home has proper ventilation, especially in the area around your skylight.
3. During the winter months, regularly remove snow and ice from your roof to prevent ice dams from forming.
4. Inspect and repair any damaged or missing shingles around your skylight.
5. Keep your roof clear of debris, such as leaves and branches.

SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties- your local experts for skylight leak repair

If you think you may have a skylight leak, be sure to contact a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties. Our team of IICRC-certified water damage restoration technicians has the experience and training to quickly and efficiently repair your skylight leak, minimize the damage to your home, and get your life back to normal.

Skylight leaks can cause extensive damage to your home, so don't wait to contact us. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we will respond immediately to your call.