Recent Water Damage Posts
Water damage restoration companies near me, Water damage restoration near me, Water Damage in New Mexico,
6/27/2022 (Permalink)
Water damage in a property in New Mexico
Residential Water damage and Commercial Water Damage Restoration, and Flood Damage, can occur at Any time.
Our SERVPRO of Albuquerque Team, can Solve this Problem for You.
In attached Picture, Water damage occurred. These incidents can lead to Mold Remediation, if not Inspected Properly and/or Dried out Properly.
***For an Estimate or Emergency Services- Call us at 505-828-3567
Our Services include Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Water damage restoration, Sewage Backup cleaning, Sewage Cleanup, Fire Damage restoration, Smoke Damage Restoration, Mold Remediation, Biohazard Cleaning and Restoration, Termite Damage Remediation and Reconstruction.
Website: https://www.SERVPROnealbuquerque.com
Check out our many 5 Star Google Reviews: https://www.google.com/maps/place/?q=place_id:ChIJ0eBQ9ywLIocRfsWsbnZia5I
Certifications
- AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
- ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
- CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
- CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
- CRT - Color Repair Technician
- ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
- FCT - Floor Care (Hard Surfaces) Technician
- FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
- HST - Health and safety Technician
- IICRC Certified Firm
- LCT - Leather Cleaning Technician
- MSI - Marble and Stone Inspector
- OCT - Odor Control Technician
- OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
- OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
- OSHA - Other Training
- RCT - Rug Cleaning Technician
- RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
- RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
- SMT - Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician
- UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
- WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
Affiliations
- American Red Cross Disaster Responder program
- Eco Friendly
- FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
- IICRC
- Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration
- Restoration Industry Association
Awards
- Certified Graduate Builder (CGB) Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) Graduate Master Builder (GMB)
- FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
- IICRC Applied Structural Drying
***For an Estimate or Emergency Services- Call us at 505-828-3567
Water Heather Maintenance Tips for your New Mexico Home
5/27/2022 (Permalink)
A water heater accounts for about 18% of the energy used in a modern home.
As a result, a water heater is one of your home's most critical and costly appliances. Proper water heater maintenance is necessary to guarantee that it continues to function properly and does not cost you too much. Checking on your water heater in the spring is an excellent idea. Water damage can occur quickly, so it's crucial to ensure sure it's in good operating order.
Here are some tips to keep your water heater running at peak performance.
- To determine if your anode rod needs to be replaced, inspect it every two years or if the warranty has ended every year.
- Attach a garden hose to the valve at the base of the water heater tank every six months to remove sediment. Please turn off the electricity and run the hot water until it cools down for safety.
- A plumbing specialist should perform a yearly check of the shut-off valve and all piping. Broken valves, loose or moist joints, and rust are signs that more severe harm is on the way.
- Turn the temperature down to 1there'sre’s no reason to keep your water heater above it. At that temperature, you can do everything you n ed. But, of course, keeping your water heater hotter can cause it to break down much faster.
If you experience water damage, SERVPRO NE Albuquerque has a team of highly trained professionals to help you 2 7. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us at 505-828-3567
Preventing a Flooded Basement in your New Mexico Home
5/26/2022 (Permalink)
Water in your basement can cause damage to your walls and flooring, as well as carpets and furniture, and can harm priceless objects like photo albums, antiques, and family treasures frequently used for storage.
Water damage can be expensive to repair, whether from a plumbing leak, a roof leak, or a flooded basement. Taking the proper preparations now will save you money, time, and problems later on, and it may even help you avoid massive, unforeseeable natural disasters. Here are a few home modifications that will reduce the likelihood of water damage:
Add or update drainage
Use gutters and downspouts to ensure water is diverted away from your home and its foundation. The easiest solutions to overflowing gutters are either adding another downspout on that run of gutter or increasing the size of the downspout.
Install a sump pump
Try this addition if water damage has been a severe problem in your home's lower level. Choose a cast-iron sump pump, which may last longer, and consider buying a battery-powered backup pump if the power goes out.
Seal Your Basement
This is a very logical step, but one many homeowners fail to keep up with year after year. Sealing openings to your basement means keeping weatherstripping around doors in good condition and making sure windows are caulked.
Install a water leak detection system
An automatic water shut-off valve is a water leak detection system that will shut off the water supply to the home when it detects water on the floor or an irregular flow in the pipe.
Check Your Landscaping
Although plants absorb water from the soil, they can also cause water intrusion in your basement. If they're too close to the foundation, roots may penetrate, resulting in cracks or bowing walls that allow water in. Overgrown shrubs may also restrict once-proper drainage and allow water to pool too close to your home.
Clean the Gutters
Clean the gutters on your roof to ensure that they don't overflow during a rainstorm. The downspouts carry the water away from your home, and if they aren't clear of debris, the water might flow into your home's basement.
Check Your Foundation for Cracks
Check your home's foundation from the inside and outside for any cracks. If you notice small cracks, use caulk to seal them. If the cracks are extensive, you will need the help of a professional to fix them before they cause damage to your basement.
Our SERVPRO team of NE Albuquerque are Professionals in water damage restoration. We are your best option to efficiently and thoroughly inspect your home of standing water and get it cleaned up quickly. Several potential problems could arise from waiting to address standing water in your house.
Give us a call today to help avoid these concerns as much as possible. We are 24/7 Emergency Response at 505-828-3567
Authored by: Chafika and James Landers
Certifications
- AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
- ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician
- CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
- ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
- FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
- HST -Health and safety Technician
- OCT -Odor Control Technician
- RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician - IICRC -Certified Firm
Affiliations
- ASBO
- EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
- Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification
Awards
- Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness
Why are your windows leaking in your New Mexico Home?
5/26/2022 (Permalink)
Windows leaking is particularly common, and they also make it difficult for homeowners to determine what the problem may be. However, there are many factors to consider when analyzing the cause of a window leak, so before repair can take place, a diagnosis is necessary.
Main reasons that windows leak and what you can do about them.
Water on the Windows When There's No Rain
Water droplets that form on the inside of the glass that doesn't correspond to the outdoor weather are a sign of condensation. It can be easily remedied by adjusting your home's humidity with central air conditioning or a dehumidifier. By lowering the moisture levels in the air, you can reduce the amount of condensation that forms on the window. Excess condensation can lead to mold growth over time.
Water is coming in around the window.
Often, these leaks happen because the caulk or sealant around the window has gotten old and cracked, allowing rain to enter the house. The fix for this situation is simple – peel out the old caulking and replace it with new window caulking.
The window leaking Around the Top of Your Window
Leaks at the top of the window can signify mistakes made during installation. For instance, the flashing might be improperly installed, or it might be missing altogether. However, if the house wrap isn't correctly installed, that could cause the window to leak, too.
The window is leaking at the bottom.
If the windows have metal or vinyl frames, they have drain holes near the bottom edge of the frame. These holes are designed to allow the water to escape the frame, but they can become clogged. Clean out the jams.
All windows should have a sill pan that allows water to drain to the house's exterior, and the sill needs to slope away from the window. If either is missing or wrong, you may need to reinstall the window to correct the problem.
Water is leaking between the panes of a double-paned window.
The glass seal has deteriorated, and rain is working between the panes. However, that gas that's supposed to be between the panes to provide an insulating factor is gone. Installing new windows will increase the home's energy efficiency.
For any water damage in your home or commercial property, SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque's highly trained technicians are ready to help you out 24/7. We'll restore the water damage and make it look "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 505-828-3567
Water Damage Cleanup By The Pros In Albuquerque
5/20/2022 (Permalink)
You need the right equipment to do the best job
If you’ve ever been faced with a sudden surge of water, whether from a burst pipe or a raging storm, you know just how overwhelming it can be. SERVPRO has been providing water damage cleanup Albuquerque can trust for over 50 years and we take pride in our reputation for service and quality.
It’s hard to imagine disaster striking in this beautiful area, with its picturesque mountains and 42.9 square miles of park land. From its many examples of the unique Pueblo Revival architectural style to its hot and spicy native cuisine, Albuquerque has so much to offer.
Despite the many features that draw thousands of visitors every year, this area is not immune to the potentially devastating effects of water damage.
As part of this community ourselves, we at SERVPRO understand the challenges presented by unforeseen water-related emergencies and we’re ready to respond 24/7 to help get the restoration process started as quickly as possible.
We have cutting-edge training and use the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to tackle every water damage restoration job no matter how large or small and we’re careful to treat every property as if it were our own.
Our restoration process is designed to make each property look “Like it never even happened”, with carefully structured steps to thoroughly address the damage:
- Initial Contact – We have operators ready to take your call 24/7 because we know that disaster can strike at any time and speed is essential. We’ll ask specific questions that will help us to determine the equipment and resources we’ll need to handle your job so we won’t have to waste any time in responding and getting the restoration underway.
- Inspection and Water Damage Assessment – We’ll have a technician on-site within four hours of your call and they’ll begin by performing a thorough inspection of your property.
We’ll need to determine the source of the problem and ensure that it has been stopped, then we’ll examine the water to identify the type and the extent of the damage so we know exactly what steps need to be taken next.
We’ll also check for any safety concerns that may need to be addressed before work can begin and we’ll move any furniture or other items to prevent rust or stains on carpeting and flooring.
- Removal/Extraction – Once the amount of damage has been determined, the process of removing or extracting the water can begin. If the restoration process will be extensive, SERVPRO can help you to perform an organized and efficient moving process in order to protect your belongings from any further damage. With the area cleared, we can then remove any standing water using submersible pumps and industrial-grade wet/dry vacuums.
Other equipment, including moisture detectors and hygrometers, can be used to measure the extent of moisture both on surfaces and in the air while infrared cameras are used to detect any “hidden” water behind walls or in ceilings. It is extremely important that every bit of moisture be detected and removed in order to mitigate damage.
- Drying/Dehumidification – We’ll use industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers to ensure that all moisture is completely removed from the affected area and surrounding rooms. This part of the process is also important to help avoid the warping of floors, walls, and furniture. Using moisture meters, we’ll carefully monitor the progress until we are satisfied that the humidity and moisture levels have returned to a safe level.
- Cleaning/Sanitizing – Water can leave behind a dirty mess, especially if it is heavily contaminated. Once everything has been thoroughly dried, we’ll clean the entire structure as well as any furniture, upholstery, clothing, or restorable belongings that have been damaged.
We’ll also use air scrubbers and fogging equipment to help remove any lingering odors while simultaneously applying antimicrobial, antibacterial, and disinfectant treatments to sanitize all surfaces. We’ll even help to dispose of any items that you or your insurance adjuster deem to be unsalvageable.
- Restoration – Some repair and reconstruction may be necessary to complete the process of returning your property to its previous state. This may include drywall removal and installation, hardwood or tile floor repair, painting, or carpet repair and installation. At SERVPRO, we understand that having one company perform the entire process can be both time and cost-saving and that’s why we’re prepared to take you through every step with the quality services you expect.
Restoring More Than Just Your Home
SERVPRO always takes a “restore first” approach when dealing with water damage because we understand how important it is for you to feel whole again. But it’s about more than just restoring your property; we also want to help restore your peace of mind.
We are part of this local community too and we provide water damage cleanup Albuquerque can trust. By helping our neighbors we can help to make the whole community stronger and that’s the most important thing we can do.
We’re well aware of just how much damage water can do and we know that trying to replace everything you lost in a flood or other water emergency can be extremely costly.
To ensure that you get the compensation you deserve, you’ll need to provide a thorough inventory to your insurance company and that can be an overwhelming job. SERVPRO is ready to help you there too because we don’t think you should have to go it alone.
We’ll make the job easier by taking a thorough inventory as we go along so that you have the basis you need to file your claim.
You don’t have to be in over your head when water damage occurs. The professionals at SERVPRO are prepared to handle any type of water damage restoration and get you back on your feet again as quickly as possible. So don’t feel that you have to face a flood or its aftermath by yourself.
Call SERVPRO today and we’ll help you start the healing.
Preventing Water Damage at Your East Mountains Business
3/28/2022 (Permalink)
All buildings are different, but each is at risk for water damage. From a minor roof leak to violently destructive hurricanes, any unwanted water intrusion can significantly impact the value of a commercial property.
If your business experiences a water-related incident, you’ll need to act quickly to mitigate the damage. Small business insurance can also play a crucial role in lessening the financial impact. However, it’s best to prevent such occurrences from happening in the first place. Use these tips to protect your business from flooding and freezing damage.
Insulate exposed pipes
Exposed pipes during the winter are vulnerable to freezing. Plummeting temperatures can freeze water inside a poorly insulated pipe, causing the pipe to burst. A broken pipe can lead to costly flooding or even structural damage. Ensure the pipes are insulated. The more insulation you use, the better protected your lines will be.
Regular Inspections
commercial buildings tend to have major external HVAC components, roofs decorated with an array of pipes and fans, and large utility rooms. The best way to keep the harsh weather outside is to hire a professional to conduct frequent and thorough inspections. Fallen leaves and other debris in gutters and downspouts can lead to water damage to the exterior and interior walls. Regularly inspect your business’s gutters, downspouts, and drainage system, and remove debris or buildup.
Locate your shut-off valve
If a pipe breaks, you’ll need to act quickly. That means you should know the location of the main shut-off valve for your building’s water supply. Shutting off the main valve will temporarily cut the water flow to the building, preventing flooding until you can fix the problem.
Seal cracks and gaps
Seal any cracks, holes, or other gaps in your building’s exterior and foundation to ensure that cold air doesn’t penetrate your structure, and warm air doesn’t escape. Caulk, weather stripping, and other sealants can be used to make your building more energy-efficient and reduce the risk of frozen pipes.
Plan B
Ideally, each commercial building should have options for temporary office space and plans to inform clients of transient changes in the case of severe water damage. Additionally, it’d never be a poor use of time to back up critical paperwork electronically.
Insurance
It’s essential to have adequate insurance in place if you experience water or freezing damage when it comes to small business insurance—the details of your coverage matter.
Ask your insurer to add a rider, or an endorsement, to your policy to extend coverage to hazards that are excluded from your policy to ensure your business is protected.
Rapid response to water damage events
Even the most carefully operated commercial building will likely experience a water damage event sometime in its lifetime. Building staff should have a well-practiced emergency response plan. The speed of response to a water damage event is the most vital key to quickly getting back to normal day-to-day operations.
Remember, SERVPRO NE Albuquerque is ready to assist you with water damage restoration and help you get back to normal. Our number one priority is getting your home or business back to preloss condition as quickly as possible. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 505-828-3567.
Household Appliances that can Cause Water Damage
3/3/2022 (Permalink)
Technician in the kitchen
Water damage caused by heavy rain is one thing, but the damage caused by your household appliances is often preventable. To ensure that your appliances are in good working condition, SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque highly recommends you get all your appliances checked a minimum of once a year, as well as inspect the hoses and connections for your appliances.
The most common sources of flooding in your home include the following:
Washing Machines
If you find your washing machine leaking, don’t take it lightly. If you see leaks around the clamps in the water hose, stay alert because it’s a warning sign for future failures. We have experienced small pinhole leaks in a water supply line that have broken out into an all-out basement flood. It is recommended to inspect your water hoses twice a year and search for any cracking, leaking, or rusting on the washing machine. It is advised to replace hoses every five years, no matter how exceptional they look from the outside.
Refrigerators
Our SERVPRO crews have had to clean water damages caused by the water line that supplies an ice maker. When the water lines get damaged, they can leak or, worse yet, become completely unattached. For the defrosted drain, thaw the ice and then flush it with hot water. For improper sealing, examine the rubber seal that runs along with the door.
If you don’t take enough precautions, the ice maker can become a mess maker in no time. It is also advised to check the hose and water line to ensure they are adequately connected every time.
Dishwashers
This household appliance has a supply line, just like refrigerators and washing machines. If a dishwasher water supply line was to burst, you could guarantee that your kitchen would be filled with water after a wash and rinse cycle. We have seen a dishwasher back up some of our more severe water damages caused by dishwashers. Backup typically occurs when debris has clogged the drain, and the water has nowhere to go but inside your home. Never forget that a dishwasher is designed to work for only ten years. So, if your dishwasher is nearing this threshold, it may be time to consider replacing it.
Hot Water Heater
Conventional water heaters with storage tanks are prone to corrosion, age-related wear, and mineral buildup. This can lead to a tank burst or leakage, and then gallons of water could be flooding onto your floor. Therefore, it is recommended to inspect the water heater annually to minimize the chances of excessive water damage. It is advised to flush the tank every six months to remove the sediments. Be attentive and replace your water heater every ten years.
If your home falls victim to a water emergency, time is of the essence. Contact SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque at 505-828-3567
Can sprinklers cause water damage to your East Mountains Business
3/3/2022 (Permalink)
Fire Sprinkler
Fire sprinkler systems offer reliable and affordable fire protection to your property. Not only do sprinkler systems prevent lives and property losses from fires, but they also leave a wet mess behind.
When a fire sprinkler head accidentally discharges, it soaks walls, floors, furniture, and anyone unlucky enough to be nearby. Regular maintenance can’t guarantee it won’t happen, but you can be ready for unexpected sprinkler breakdowns with these tips.
- Call the experts in Water Damage Restoration.
Call SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque; we are experts in water damage restoration. This is the first step to ensuring all water damage is addressed and managed with the skill to eliminate future damage. This service provider will assess the existing water damage and develop a strategy to return your property to its original, non-damaged state.
- Don’t try cleanup by yourself.
When fire sprinkler heads accidentally discharge – usually because they are broken – they release a spray of dirty water contaminated with rust, oil, and sediment. The mixture stains the surface and spreads solid and unpleasant odors throughout the building. Don’t try to tackle the mess on your own. Leave clean up to us.
- We do the cleanup and the mitigation. We care for all interior materials, including sheetrock, carpets, and flooring.
- Our certified restoration technicians often salvage damaged furniture, equipment, and even paper records.
- Document everything
Document water damage from a sprinkler system as soon as possible. Record all the damages immediately. That way, you can demonstrate the extent of loss to your insurance company.
- Take detailed pictures and videos of all affected interiors, including broken sprinklers, wet walls, and wet floors.
- Leave large items like furniture and equipment in place for the adjuster’s inspection.
- Save the receipts for damage-related expenses.
Remember, SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque is ready to assist you with water damage restoration and help you get back to normal. Our number one priority is getting your home or business back to preloss condition as quickly as possible. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 505-828-3567
Prevent basement flooding
5/5/2021 (Permalink)
don't let water damage become a permanent resident of your basement.
If your basement floods every time it rains hard, chances are your house is located in an area with an elevated water table. There are measures that will help prevent your home from flooding.
Sub-surface water accumulates in pore spaces and cracks deep below the ground. The upper surface of this underground aquifer is referred to as the “water table.” During heavy rainstorms, successive strata of soil and gravel become saturated with rain runoff, and the water table rises. Conversely, during extended dry spells, the water table falls.
Other factors contribute to the elevation of the water table besides rainfall. Excess water can drain down into your area from higher elevations, or the soil around your house may not absorb excess water particularly well.
Houses that are built in areas with high water tables often require some structural and landscaping alterations in order to keep foundations dry and your basement flood free. In particularly flood-prone neighborhoods, homeowners may need to invest in a sump basket and a pump.
Tips For a Flood Free Basement
1. Gutters are key.
Make sure your gutters are in good shape, free from leaves and other detritus, and that their downspouts face away from the house and its foundations.
Gutters are engineered to catch rainwater, and to funnel it away from the house. Downspouts need to have at least a 4- to 6-foot horizontal extension to direct water away from the foundations.
How can you tell if your gutter extensions are long enough? Water should not be flowing out the sides of your gutters in a rainstorm. The next time it’s raining heavily, go outside and see if your gutters are performing their job adequately. If water is pouring from the sides of the gutters, add additional downspouts or a wider downspout to increase your water-carrying capacity.
2. Shunt water away from your foundations.
You may need to regrade the yard around your house in order to keep rain from flowing into your basement. Optimally, there should be a four-foot slope around your house. You may need to re-landscape the area around your foundations, and haul in additional soil or gravel. If your house is built on a flat piece of property, you may need to build a reservoir sub-addition.
3. Waterproof your basement walls.
Plug all holes and cracks in your basement walls. Water can seep through those fissures. Patching them with hydraulic cement won’t prevent flooding when other problems are present, but it will help. Additionally, painting a waterproof sealant on your basement walls will help prevent water vapor from seeping in from the outside.
4. Install a basement drainage system.
Installing a drainage system into an existing home can be expensive and challenging, but it is the most effective remedy for chronically leaky basements. To install drainage tubing connected to a sump basket and pump beneath an existing basement floor, you will have to dig up the existing concrete floor, bury the tubing and then re-lay the floor.
The Benefits of a Water Restoration Professional Compared to DIY Fixes
5/5/2021 (Permalink)
let SERVPRO of ne Albuquerque help with your water restoration needs
When considering the multiple number of ways water can invade a house and remain undetected, it’s no surprise that water damage is the most prevalent type of damage found in homes and other structures. Whether it be intense rains that lead to flash floods, busted or leaking pipes, leaking roofs, or even high levels of humidity, all of these potential problems can lead to severe water damage inside your home.
Many people are tempted to take a DIY approach to fixing their water damage problems. This is not recommended due to the nature of water and its ability to be absorbed into the porous building materials of your home. It can be hard to assess the full extent of water damage inside your home yourself. It is best to hire a professional to handle your water damage restoration needs because they have the experience and training as well as the right equipment to properly and thoroughly remove hidden water and moisture.
The following are the top reasons to hire a water damage professional instead of attempting DIY water damage restoration:
Location of Hidden Water Damage & the Source of the Damage
The trickiest part about water damage is trying to determine the full extent of the damage. Water easily gets absorbed into building materials such as insulation, wood, and drywall and if it is not fully removed from these materials, the damage will only get worse and eventually cause mold and mildew to grow. Experienced water damage restoration professionals know how to look for hidden water damage as well as the source of the excess water or moisture to prevent further damage. Much of the hidden water damage can be very difficult to find without enough experience.
Professional Grade Equipment
One major advantage of hiring a water damage restoration professional is that they use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that excess water and moisture has been removed. This advanced drying equipment consists of shop vacs, air movers, and powerful dehumidifiers. Air movers help the drying process by inciting evaporation and they can also bring the humidity level of your home to an acceptable level. Powerful dehumidifiers are used to remove water completely from the air, structural elements, and furnishings in your home.
Quick Response and Restoration
A speedy response is important to minimize damage. This is why it is standard in the industry for water restoration professionals to respond to your house within 2 to 4 hours after first contact. If immediate action is not taken the risk of water spreading and damaging your home and furniture greatly increases. Additionally, if water is left to sit for multiple days the risk of mold growth greatly increases. Water damage restoration specialists know this, which is why they arrive as a team to allow them to tackle multiple problems areas at once. This helps to speed up the water damage restoration process as well as reduce the time needed for drying.
Mold Remediation
One of the worst possible side effects to come out of water damage is the growth of mold and mildew. Mold grows in an area full of moisture, which is why it commonly follows water damage in houses. What makes mold hard to deal with is that it doesn’t just grow on the surface of the affected area, it penetrates through the surface and grows within and underneath the affected area. This is why many DIY mold cleanup jobs are not done successfully and result in the mold growing back again. With prolonged exposure to mold many different health affects can occur which depend on the type of mold as well as the individual.
Mold remediation is best handled by a mold remediation specialist due the many dangers it presents to one's health. They are trained to quarantine off the affected area(s) to prevent mold spores from spreading during the cleaning process. Technicians also handle potent cleaning products with many chemicals that help to remove the mold, which can be hazardous if mishandled.
Reduction of Health Effects
Depending on the cause of your water damage different health effects could arise. Standing water can spread sewage, bacteria, and other microorganisms that can cause health effects. Water damage technicians are aware of this and trained to properly clean up these types of messes. They will remove any hazardous materials and use the proper chemicals in their cleanup to prevent health effects from occurring.
Reduction of Overall Costs and Losses
Although it might seem more cost effective to resort to Google to help you in doing a DIY cleanup, this can cost you money in the long run. Hiring a water damage restoration professional will assure the job is done properly the first time around. This can prevent water from taking occupancy inside porous materials where it can stay and begin to grow mold. This is a slow process that often goes unnoticed until the mold has begun to take over parts of your home. If you wait until you have this type of problem the costs you’ll incur are a lot more expensive than if you had called a water damage specialist to start with. Additionally, when a water damage specialist cleans up mold, they quarantine the affected area so that they don’t spread microscopic mold spores into the rest of the house during the cleaning process.
Help with Insurance Claims
If you have a problem with water damage the first thing you should do is call your insurance agent. They can help you file an insurance claim for any damages as well as recommend you to a trusted water damage repair specialist whom they regularly work with.
The major benefits to hiring a water damage specialist is you’ll save yourself time, money, and trouble. So as soon as you identify any water damage inside your home call a local, trusted water damage restoration service provider like SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque. We will arrive quickly to the scene to help limit the spread of the damage and immediately begin the restoration process.
Water Damage Restoration Cost Guide
7/2/2020 (Permalink)
According to statistics floods are one of the most disasters that occur in the USA. When water damages take place time is tight and you need to think and act quickly. Such an emergency situation should be stopped as soon as possible in order to prevent the damage from spreading. What can you do? Who can you call? This water damage restoration cost guide is prepared to help you efficiently solve your problem and restore your home to a normal condition.
What is a water damage restoration and how can this be helpful for you? This is a process in which your home is restored to the condition in which it was before the damages occurred or an improved one by removing the problem and its consequences.
Further on in this article, you will find the particular ways to tackle this issue timely and effectively.
Water Damage Restoration Cost Tips
Firstly, contact your insurance company and inform them about the damages that you have had to see which part of the damaged items are eligible for an insurance claim.
Secondly, don’t waste any time and call us on our number 505-828-3567. Waiting more could cause water damages to spread. If a pipe is broken, you have another leak in your house or you are experiencing the unfortunate event of being flooded, any minute is important, especially if you cannot locate the source of the damage or you have no control over it. Let us know what problem you have and ask us for the free information you can receive. We can provide for you a free consult regarding our services and the way we can help you cope with your emergency situation. Check out the water damage restoration services that are provided and how we can be helpful for you.
Thirdly, try to return the process of damage. Use the time you have until the water damage restoration company experts arrive on the spot and, if possible, begin drying up the wet areas or closing the leakage, if you have one. The final water damage restoration cost will also be lower if you do part of the work on your home rehabilitation – in this way the professionals will work less on your damages and of course charge you less.
Use our free water damage restoration cost estimator to receive a quick calculation for your particular case.
Another saving money tip is to do some cleaning along with your restoration. If you contact a cleaning company to clean your carpet for example your carpet cleaning costs will be lower compared to a case in which you contact a company only for carpet cleaning. Ask cleaning and restoration companies
Water Damage Restoration Costs And Solutions
Factors That Determine Water Restoration Cost
The cost of water damage restoration depends mainly on two factors – the size of the damage and the restoration company that you chose. It is difficult to give an exact price calculation so before going to particular estimates it is important to first take a look at the factors that comprise the water damage restoration cost:
Water Damage Restoration Solutions
Ask for a written estimate that includes all factors of the water damage restoration cost to be able to see what is the price for every service you are going to get. When water damage restoration experts arrive at your home the first thing they do is look around and detect the reason for the emergency situation that you have.
They take with themselves all the special equipment necessary and use it to explore the problem and solve it.
Water damage restoration cost includes cleaning the area from the water and damp, drying it, removing any results from the damage like mold, and finally sanitizing the area that has been infected. All of these are important in order not only to restore your home but also to ensure the health and safety of yourself and your family.
The restoration company will also try to restore some of the objects that have been damaged. For some of them, it will be possible. For other items the price of restoring them may be higher than the cost of buying them new in which case they will not be restored. The water damage restoration cost includes this service as well.
Water Damage Restoration TIps
7/2/2020 (Permalink)
Waking up to a basement full of water, a burst pipe in your kitchen, or an overflow of water in your bathroom can ruin your whole day. Before you call a water damage restoration professional, here are some steps to take to reduce the amount of water damage to your property and possessions.
- Find out where the water is coming from. This may sound obvious, but if you’ve just come home and found a gigantic mess and don’t know where it originated, the first thing you need to do is to FIND IT. If you are not able to find the actual source of the water, you may have a pipe that has burst. You want to stop additional water from entering your home as soon as possible. If you have a bust pipe, turn off the water supply to your home, if your roof is leaking, stop the leak as best you can.
- Figure out how much damage has been done. Some things can be fixed on your own, but if it involves damage to your drywall, flooring, or ceilings, then it’s best to call in a professional.
- If it’s something you can manage on your own, then first things first: circulation!! Open the windows, turn on the fans, let the room breathe! This will not only help dry things out, but it’ll also help reduce the smell. Get a dehumidifier out and running – it takes the moisture out of the air and surrounding objects, and helps avoid mold and mildew from developing – a great instrument to have at hand.
Water Damage - How Much is Too Much?
2/5/2020 (Permalink)
Everyone has had water in their facility where it shouldn’t be. It’s always a mess, but how much is too much? When water damage occurs, when do you handle it with your own staff and when should you call in a professional water restoration company?
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) sets national standards for how to properly handle water damage in 7 steps:
- Turn the water off first. It is no use to start cleaning up the mess until you have fixed the problem. So fix the leak, call the plumber, call the city, wait for the seepage to stop; whatever you need to do to stop the problem is your first step.
- Determine the path that the water traveled. Find out where the water started and where it went. This isn’t always easy. Water can travel through walls, behind cabinets, through building materials of all kinds. Only when you know where it traveled can you dry out all the areas affected. Missing some areas means problems later. Your trusted restoration company has several types of moisture meters (costing from $600 into the thousands) that will determine where the water traveled. Find out more about the cost of water damage restoration here.
- Protect the contents. Many times, furniture is also affected by the water. For example, wet legs from chairs or furniture can release stain into carpet and other flooring and cause permanent damage. Get everything up and out of the water right away.
- Remove the surface water. It seems that it is always more than you think. A simple toilet supply line can leak between 700 to 1,400 gallons of water in 24 hours! Be prepared with enough staff and equipment to vacuum it up in a reasonable time.
- Dealing with carpet pad. In most cases, remove and discard the pad from the affected areas. It is inexpensive to replace and very hard to dry. Take it out, dry what is left and replace it.
- Prevent mold growth. Treat the wet area with an antimicrobial solution once the surface water has been removed (staff must have the proper certification). Spray this on hard surfaces and under carpet and then draw it through the carpet with a vacuum. Then be sure to dry the area within 3 days or less. Mold takes time to grow so time is on your side, but if the area isn’t dried quickly it will grow and cause further problems.
- Balance the moisture evaporation. This part can be tricky without the proper test equipment owned by a restoration company. In a nutshell, when you start a fan on an area to dry it, you put moisture in the air. This requires a dehumidifier(s) to wring the moisture out of the air at the same rate that you are putting it in with the fan. Without the proper balance you can cause secondary damage to walls and other building materials. Qualified restoration companies are experts in this process and should be hired if you feel the amount of water is too large to dry in a single day. Waiting too long to call them results in a host of other problems you don’t need in the future.
A simple evaluation of your ability to respond to water damage today will provide you with an appropriate response when it happens. Do you have enough equipment to vacuum water readily available to all buildings? Do you have large fans available too? Can this affected area be cleaned and dried in one day? If not, call in help.
Secondary damage and mold growth caused by not drying water damaged building materials has resulted in thousands of lawsuits across the county. Your best defense is to plan ahead of time and be prepared to call in help from a qualified restoration company if conditions warrant. It will save a host of problems in the future. Water damage happens in every facility. Be ready.
Water Damage Cleanup FAQ
2/4/2020 (Permalink)
- How long will it take my property to dry?
Drying time is determined by a combination of factors including the location, duration and source of water, the types of building materials, the weather conditions and how quickly emergency services begin. Through consistent monitoring and evaluation of the drying process, we can determine when the drying is complete. Your carpet may feel dry to the touch, but padding and sub-floors may still be wet underneath. While there are no rules to determine how long your property will take to dry, we can tell you it may take between three to five days or more, depending on the conditions.
- How do I know when my property is completely dry?
Proper testing with our specialized equipment is the correct way to determine if things are completely dry. Touch alone may be a false indicator.
- Will turning up the heat help dry things out?
Not necessarily. We will adjust the temperature to its optimum setting for the proper drying conditions. Please do not change the setting or shut off the system; doing so may prolong the drying process.
- My wood floors are wet and buckling. Will they have to be replaced?
Wood flooring must be evaluated during the drying process. We employ specialized drying systems and dehumidifiers which enable us to create an environment where wood floors can dry more efficiently and resume their original shape. Due to the density of hardwood flooring and urethane finishes, drying may take up to three weeks or longer. If you filed a claim, your insurance adjuster will work with you to make the final decision as to whether floors will need to be refinished or replaced. - What about my wet furniture?
The extent of damage and the construction of the furniture will determine if your furniture can be restored. Your furniture must be dried before damage can be adequately assessed. Non-salvageable furniture will be documented for you and if any items need to be discarded, a customer release form will need to be signed.
- Do I need to move out of my property during the water damage restoration process?
If you file an insurance claim, you may receive guidance from your insurance representative. However, this is a decision you must reach on your own. Here are several things to consider. Safety is paramount. Our equipment is as childproof as possible, but we require your supervision for making sure no children play with it. Air movers and dehumidifiers will create some noise and make your property drafty for a few days. It is important that the equipment remains on, so if the noise is disruptive to you, you might want to consider an alternate place to stay.
- What is that smell?
It is not unusual to smell odors during the drying process. Increased heat and humidity can also lead to increased odors that may be coming from the drying building materials, or dormant spill and accident areas. Do not confuse these normal odors for the odor of mold.As the drying process continues and humidity levels drop, you will notice these odors disappearing on their own. Deodorizers are often used to minimize these effects as well.
- Does everything need to be moved out during restoration?
Not usually. If items need to be moved out, we will let you know in advance.
- My ceilings are wet. What needs to be done?
Our technicians will evaluate moisture content, determine the severity of the damage and may have to remove some of your ceiling for ventilation. Wet insulation can also be a hazard and may need to be removed.
- Should I open the windows to help the drying process?
Opening your windows to assist the drying process is not always recommended. Outside weather conditions may vary, so the technicians will determine when and if the outside air is appropriate.
- Can I walk on the area during the drying process?
It is strongly suggested that you keep the traffic to a minimum. Wearing shoes is recommended for your safety.
A few reasons your carpet may not be salvageable:
– Delamination (occurs when the backing separates from the carpet fiber)
– Loss of adhesion (may be caused my prolonged exposure to water or age of the carpet)
– Permanent Stains
– Carpet covers wood flooring (to salvage the wood flooring)
– Sewage contamination
- Why does my specialty floor need to be removed?
Non-porous flooring can trap water and prevent it from drying properly.
- Why did the technician leave wet carpet on my stairs?
Carpet on the stairs is generally not removed for safety reasons. Exposed tack strip or staples, especially on steps is dangerous. However, there are situations where removing carpet from steps is necessary to prevent damage to hardwood steps or in the case of sewage contamination. Removing tack strip is not advised, as this may damage the hardwood or the sub-floor. Extreme caution must be when ever tack strip is exposed or when the carpeted stairs are damp. If carpet left on the stairs is unsalvageable, it will be removed when new carpet is installed.
- How will you match my carpet pad?
A sample of your pad is brought to the office for a match. When available, an identical pad will be used. When your original pad is not available, we will provide a pad of the same quality, thickness and density. Similar pad may differ in color based upon the time it was manufactured.
- What will you do with my area rugs?
Rugs are taken to our warehouse for special care. They need to be dried carefully to minimize bleeding and colors and discoloration. Your rugs will be dried, cleaned and returned.
- Why are air movers and dehumidifiers used?
When water damage has occurred, water can be absorbed into the drywall (sheetrock), baseboards, sub-flooring, etc. Drying these surfaces requires high velocity air movers to accelerate the release of absorbed water into the air. Dehumidifiers are necessary for removing this excess moisture to help protect property and create conditions for efficient drying. Please do not turn off or move drying equipment without first calling ServiceMaster Clean.
- Who is responsible for monitoring the drying equipment?
Our water damage mitigation specialists will place and monitor equipment to achieve optimal results in the shortest amount of time. Please make sure no one turns the equipment off or moves it. Please notify our office immediately if the power goes off or if the equipment turns off.
- What will it cost to run the equipment?
Based on average electrical rates, it may cost about one dollar per day to operate the drying equipment.
- What about sewage contamination?
Hard surfaces can be cleaned and sanitized. Affected items that cannot be sanitized require disposal. Porous materials such as drywall, ceiling tiles, insulation, particleboard, paneling, etc. that have been directly affected should be removed during the emergency service visit.
Water Damage | How Much is too Much?
9/20/2019 (Permalink)
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) sets national standards for how to properly handle water damage in 7 steps:
- Turn the water off first. It is no use to start cleaning up the mess until you have fixed the problem. So fix the leak, call the plumber, call the city, wait for the seepage to stop; whatever you need to do to stop the problem is your first step.
- Determine the path that the water traveled. Find out where the water started and where it went. This isn’t always easy. Water can travel through walls, behind cabinets, through building materials of all kinds. Only when you know where it traveled can you dry out all the areas affected. Missing some areas means problems later. Your trusted restoration company has several types of moisture meters (costing from $600 into the thousands) that will determine where the water traveled.
- Protect the contents. Many times, furniture is also affected by the water. For example, wet legs from chairs or furniture can release stain into carpet and other flooring and cause permanent damage. Get everything up and out of the water right away.
- Remove the surface water. It seems that it is always more than you think. A simple toilet supply line can leak between 700 to 1,400 gallons of water in 24 hours! Be prepared with enough staff and equipment to vacuum it up in a reasonable time.
- Dealing with carpet pad. In most cases, remove and discard the pad from the affected areas. It is inexpensive to replace and very hard to dry. Take it out, dry what is left and replace it.
- Prevent mold growth. Treat the wet area with an antimicrobial solution once the surface water has been removed (staff must have the proper certification). Spray this on hard surfaces and under carpet and then draw it through the carpet with a vacuum. Then be sure to dry the area within 3 days or less. Mold takes time to grow so time is on your side, but if the area isn’t dried quickly it will grow and cause further problems.
- Balance the moisture evaporation. This part can be tricky without the proper test equipment owned by a restoration company. In a nutshell, when you start a fan on an area to dry it, you put moisture in the air. This requires a dehumidifier(s) to wring the moisture out of the air at the same rate that you are putting it in with the fan. Without the proper balance you can cause secondary damage to walls and other building materials. Qualified restoration companies are experts in this process and should be hired if you feel the amount of water is too large to dry in a single day. Waiting too long to call them results in a host of other problems you don’t need in the future.
A simple evaluation of your ability to respond to water damage today will provide you with an appropriate response when it happens. Do you have enough equipment to vacuum water readily available to all buildings? Do you have large fans available too? Can this affected area be cleaned and dried in one day? If not, call in help.
Secondary damage and mold growth caused by not drying water damaged building materials has resulted in thousands of lawsuits across the county. Your best defense is to plan ahead of time and be prepared to call in help from a qualified restoration company if conditions warrant. It will save a host of problems in the future. Water damage happens in every facility. Be ready.
4 Things you can do to Prevent Water Damage
9/20/2019 (Permalink)
Here are 4 steps you can take today to prevent water damage to your home, courtesy of State Farm:
- Replace deteriorated caulk around sinks, and check the pipes under the sink for leaks. A slow-draining pipe may indicate a partially blocked drain that needs cleaning.
- Check hoses regularly for bulging, cracking, fraying, and leaks around hose ends. Replace the hose if a problem is found or every 3 to 5 years as part of a proactive maintenance program. To help make sure the hose doesn’t kink, leave at least 4 inches (or 11 centimeters) between the water connection and the back of the washing machine.
- Make sure everyone in your household knows where the water shutoff valve is and how to open and close it. Check it frequently for problems, and shut off the water if you are away from your home for several days or longer.
- Keep the roof free from leaves, twigs, and other litter to allow proper drainage. Clogged gutters can easily lead to poor drainage, which in turn can lead to leaks in both the walls and at the foundation. Also, replace missing, curling, cupping, broken, or cracked shingles.
Water Damage Clean Up Tips
6/20/2019 (Permalink)
Assess Safety
Do not enter the damaged area without conducting a safety assessment. Depending on the extent of the damage, it may not be safe for you to enter the building.
- Water damage can weaken the structural integrity of the building. If the ceilings are sagging, do not enter the building.
- Be sure the electricity in the building has been shut off. Submerged electrical appliances and electronics can cause serious electrical shock.
- If the area has been under water for more than 24 hours, wear a surgical mask to avoid inhaling mold spores, or avoid the area until the professionals arrive.
Keep in mind that the floor will be slippery and objects may have shifted during the flooding. Slip and fall accidents are one of the most common causes of injury in water damage cleanupprojects.
Remove Standing Water
If it is safe for you to do so, use a wet-dry vacuum to remove standing water, or use towels to soak up smaller pools of water on furniture, counters, and other surfaces. If the area is flooded with more than a foot or two of water, wait for a professional water damage remediation team to arrive.Removing large amounts of water too quickly will damage the building’s foundation.
Move Furniture, Rugs, and Smaller Items
Remove area rugs from the room and spread them outside to dry. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to prevent carpet stains. When wood furniture is exposed to excessive moisture, the stain can transfer to the carpet leaving permanent marks. Metal table or chair legs can leave rust stains. Remove smaller items such as books, toys, chairs, and other miscellaneous objects from the area.
Water Damage Clean up Service Costs
6/14/2019 (Permalink)
Factors Affecting Water Damage Remediation Costs
The cost of a water damage remediation project is determined by the size of the affected area and the type of water involved. Water is divided into three categories:
- Category 1 is essentially clean water. Because it generally does not imply serious health and safety concerns, this is the least expensive type of water remediation. This type of water usually comes from a burst supply pipe or a faucet left on.
- Category 2 is dirty water that is not seriously contaminated. This type can come from an overflowing dishwasher or washing machine.
- Category 3 is water that is dangerously contaminated, such as raw sewage. This type of water poses serious health and safety risks and repairing damage from this kind of water is usually expensive.
The cost of the project also depends on the size of the affected area. Repairing damage in a relatively contained area will be less expensive than an entire house remediation.
Price Range For Water Damage Cleanup
The cost to fix water damage varies greatly depending on the area and type of damage. Damage from a leaky roof is usually contained to a small area and involves category 1 water. For this, you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars.
A burst pipe affecting a larger area can cost tens of thousands of dollars. This kind of water damage can affect a wider area. It also depends on whether the water came from a supply pipe with clean water or a discharge pipe with category 2 or 3 water.
Flood restoration costs range from $7,800 to $26,000, depending on the depth of the water, according to the National Flood Insurance Program.
Optional Services
Minimize the cost of water damage cleanup by starting to dry the area and your possessions within 24 hours. Mold will begin to grow if water remains longer than 24 hours, and removing mold will incur further costs.
To minimize the area affected by water damage, shut off the water supply as soon as a leak is detected – the sooner, the better. A simple water alarm can detect moisture and automatically shut off the water supply. This costs between $50 and $150. These devices can prevent large-scale flooding from a broken appliance or water heater, saving you thousands of dollars.
Pros and Cons of Flat Roofs
2/7/2019 (Permalink)
Home and business owners throughout New Mexico considering upgrading their roofing may want to consider the advantages as well as disadvantages of installing a flat roof rather than one featuring sloped construction. SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque understands that flat roofs are becoming increasingly popular because of their affordability, but they must be properly sealed in order to maintain their structural integrity as well as properly maintained in order to prevent roof leaks.
There are several important advantages of selecting a flat roof over one that is sloped. Flat roofs are easier to access and stand on for the purposes of roof inspection. Their horizontal surface offers more stability than a sloped roof. They are much more affordable to install as well as re-coat than other styles of roofing. A flat roof is also viewed as more aesthetically appealing for use in warmer climates.
One major disadvantage that flat roofing has over a sloped roof is that its stability decreases as its size increases. A very large flat roof usually cannot avoid flooding after a period of heavy rains, and there is an increased risk of collapse from the weight of this water. In order to avoid flooding problems, the synthetic rubber coating that has been applied to the surface of the roof must be checked on a regular basis. Proper maintenance is also essential to avoiding roof leaks.
Home and business owners whose buildings currently have a flat roof that has not been checked or undergone regular maintenance should contact a licensed roofer for an inspection. If you do have a leak-- contact SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque immediately 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our professional team will ensure that water damage is repaired and get you back into your home or business in no time!
Permanent Flood Fix on the Table for Northeast Albuquerque
1/31/2019 (Permalink)
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —An Albuquerque family made some big changes to their northeast home to make sure their garage and backyard doesn't flood during monsoon season -- and more permanent help is on the way.
Sasha Patton said her family has spent almost a year and thousands of dollars creating barriers around her house, and funnels through the property where water can flood.
"We haven't stopped," Patton said. "We have done project, after project, after project. If it floods and we're home, we can sit in the window and drink a cup of coffee and not have to worry about it anymore."
Patton and her family made the expensive changes because last May, gallons of rainwater rushed through her garage into the backyard, after a storm drain on her street was overwhelmed.
She caught the whole storm on camera.
After the damage was done, the Albuquerque Metropolitan Arroyo Flood Control Authority, or AMAFCA, took notice.
Engineers began to look at whether the neighborhoods near Constitution and Washington NE were in a flood plain.
AMAFCA said in a report it found there are several neighborhoods with the same problem because when it starts to rain really heavily, all of the water drains down the street to the lowest point. At the lowest point are many homes and businesses.
Now, AMAFCA is working on a solution. A spokesperson said the idea of a holding pond is in the initial report. It could hold the monsoon rain water, but any solution is still years and millions of dollars away.
Patton said that's why they're prepared.
"We've done everything to keep ourselves safe," Patton said.
Albuquerque Water Damage Restoration
9/10/2018 (Permalink)
Albuquerque Water Damage Restoration
505-828-3567
www.SERVPRONEAlbuquerque.com
Water damage restoration season is upon with nights becoming colder and longer. Before we know it, our heaters will be on and the threat of frozen pipes will be a nightly threat. In the case of below freezing temperatures and broken pipes, be sure to reach out to your local experts at SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque. We specialize in all forms of water damage restoration. Everything from roof leaks, to plumbing problems, to anything else that Mother Nature has in store. There is no project too small or big, residential or commercial. Your licensed GB-98 contractor at SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque is here to help from claim to completion in the quest to make it “Like it never even happened.®”
It’s not uncommon for construction repair and rebuilds to be a cause of a water damage restoration. Many of times a contractor will be doing work on a property and a leak springs. The benefit to calling SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque is that we can fix the pipe, wall, flooring, etc. Even if the water damage escalates to a mold infestation, we can help restore that as well!
Like we said, there is no job too big or small that we can’t handle. We have been servicing the greater Albuquerque for over 20 years and work with all major insurance companies as well as self-pay clients. Estimates are free for customers located in the greater Albuquerque area. Feel free calling us for with any questions and to schedule a time for us to provide an estimate. It’s better to be safe than sorry. So call the heroes at SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque at 505-828-3567.
Water Damage Restoration: SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque
8/27/2018 (Permalink)
Water Damage Restoration: SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque
Call 505-828-3567
www.SERVPROnealbuquerque.com
Water Damage Restoration can be caused by a number of different sources including: hot water heater, sink, refrigerator, roof, pipes, weather, toilet, etc. It’s surprising how quickly a small leak can horrifically flood a room or a slow leak that has been running for years turns into a severe mold infestation. Fortunately, Albuquerque’s longest locally owned GB-98 licensed SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque is here to help you through any emergency remediation (Fire, Water, Mold & Biohazard). With being a complete one-stop-shop, our goal is to get things back to “Like it never even happened.”®
The first thing that should be done when a water damage restoration emergency comes up is to call SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque at 505-828-3567. We will immediately send an available crew out to the site to help contain the site. From there, our licensed GB-98 contractor will schedule a time to come out and put together a complete quote. If the property is insured, we will directly with the adjuster as well as work with the property owner for out of pocket clients.
Time and temperature is the greatest enemy for any water damage restoration. Dehydrating the site is the most crucial step to take to prevent mold and mildew taking over. Our state-of-the-art industrial grade methods are designed to do this in a very timely manner.
From here, any reconstruction or replacement can take place. Rather than having to orchestrate multiple other contractors, we make things easy and convenient by finishing the job from claim to complete. We can dry the carpet or replace it with a brand new floor. If the drywall is damaged, we can replace and paint it back to its original state.
There is no job too big or small for us. If you are in the greater Albuquerque area, please feel free giving us a call to schedule a free estimate or if you have any additional questions. Rest assured that the experts at SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque are here to help!
Call Us: (505) 828-3567
Water Damage Restoration Tips
6/11/2018 (Permalink)
Water Damage Restoration Tips
With monsoon season creeping up on us, water damage restoration may be an unforeseen hurdle that may need to be tackled. Whether it is a leaky roof or a flooding, the professionals of SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque have a list of tips for any water damage restoration project.
The first thing that needs to be done is to make sure that all electronics are disconnected. During this process, it is important to determine if the house/property is safe to stay in. To help determine this, give us a call at (505)-828-3567. We are more than happy to come out and provide a free estimate for individuals in the greater Albuquerque area who are insured.
It is vital that these initial steps are completed A.S.A.P. Once water is introduced; mold can quickly take hold and spread. The faster the water damage restoration process is engaged, the less hassle and troubles will be experienced.
Once the experts of SERVPRO od NE Albuquerque are on site, the drying and dehumidification process begins. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business for any water damage restoration.
During this step, we also help with the caring and upkeep of your belongings. If the water damage restoration is significant enough and requires the items to be temporarily moved out, we are prepared to help out with this process. Our goal is to be a one-stop-shop for the entire restoration process from A-Z.
After the water damage restoration is dried, the build back can begin. We are a certified GB-98 contractor and will get any damage back to the way it looked “Like it never even happened.” ®
If you have any additional questions, please visit our website and give us a call!
Phone: (505)828-3567
Water Damage To Your Rental From Recent Storm?
5/17/2018 (Permalink)
Water Damage Repair For the Landlord and Tenant
Has the recent storm we experienced caused water damage to your property?
The sooner water damage is addressed, the less likely other problems like mold will appear. There are a couple things that should be addressed for both the property owner and tenant.
Issues around repairs are a standout amongst the most well-known problems occupants bring awareness to respective property owners, says Senior Officer with the Tenants Union of NSW Leo Patterson Ross.
As an occupant, you have to recognize what sort of support a landowner is relied upon to care for and how to ensure the place you call home doesn't fall into disrepair under your supervision.
A genuine rooftop leak is viewed as a critical repair. A rooftop repair is viewed as a top priority repair.
Who is responsible for the repair?
Property managers need to keep the premise in a sensible condition of repair in relation to the age of the property, the measure of lease you are paying and the planned existence of the premises. In addition, they have to follow building, health and safety laws.
While you're in charge of things like yard maintenance and light fixtures, the landowner needs to take care of breakdowns of provided accommodations like cooking and hot water appliances, as well as damage from bad weather, a burst water pipe or other water damages.
Patterson Ross says every state has extremely strong occupant repair rights backed into laws and codes. In case you're uncertain, telephone your property administrator and get their information. They ought to be up to speed on who is in charge of what.
Contact your property director or landowner quickly
Property director Brenda Wayman of Wayman Real Estate says it's a smart move to inform the property supervisor or landowner about maintenance issues when they emerge.
"A great deal of renters would prefer not to report repairs since they feel that next time it comes around to a rent reestablishment, the lease will go up, yet that is not the situation," she says.
"We'd rather know everything that is going ahead in the place and keep it all around kept up, just increasing the rent when the market permits."
Wayman calls attention to that if an occupant doesn't report damage and it creates even more of a problem, it can be thought about as carelessness.
"The renter could then wind up with a court order to pay the landowner's insurance increase since they didn't report an issue," she says.
Record and hold on to all documents
It's essential to monitor all correspondence around your repair issue. Put all communications and moves in written documentation, says Wayman, so there's no questioning about who said what.
Keep a record of telephone calls, including the date and who you addressed, and where fitting take photographs of the thing requiring consideration and forward them to the property director or landowner.
Patterson Ross says the greatest hurdle for occupants to get repairs followed through with is the apparent danger of a "no grounds" lease cancellation.
"Inhabitants are stressed over being viewed as troublesome occupants," he says. "Somewhere in the range of occupants are being told they're being kicked out on the grounds that the proprietor wouldn't like to manage them any longer."
Patterson Ross says while these rent terminations do happen, they're not normal, and renters should continue with their endeavors to have repairs finished.
Work with your property director
Wayman says most property directors would like to give great support to their renters and landowners and their main work responsibility is to ensure repairs are made in a convenient way.
"I say to my proprietors on the off chance that you don't keep up your property you'll wind up with less desirable occupants, and the last thing you need is individuals that won't take care of your property," she says, calling attention to that repairs are typically charged to the deductible.
On a few events, it's the property supervisor who gives repairs a chance to slide. Wayman assumed control over the administration of a Sydney property where water damage was left unattended for over a year in light of the fact that the past property director never got around to procuring a tradesman to settle it, notwithstanding having the thumbs up from the landowner.
The miserable occupants wound up leaving and Wayman was entrusted with restoring the property to great condition before she could rent it out.
In the event that it's your property administrator that is letting the side down, endeavor to contact the proprietor straightforwardly with your worries.
No activity? Bring in the repairman!
On the off chance that your property director or proprietor is inaccessible, there are conditions where you can sort out a repair yourself.
With a specific end goal to be repaid for any critical repairs you should have the capacity to demonstrate the repair was not your blame, that you attempted to contact the landowner or property manager and that the repairs were completed by an authorized tradesperson.
You can likewise visit the site of the Tenants Union or proportional in your state for support, report sheets and documentation that you can download, edit and send off.
If all else fails you can apply to your local authorities in your city/state for a request for the repairs to be finished.
"The legal costs inhabitants time and cash, so on the off chance that you can resolve a repair issue without them it's eventually better, however it's the best way to get binding requests," says Patterson Ross.
"Contingent upon the type of repair, you might be qualified for a lease decrease until the point when the repair is finished. This can be a decent inspiration for the landowner to finish the repair."
Pressing repairs a landowner needs to settle as quickly as possible
- Burst water pipe or a severe water leak
- Backed up or damaged toilet
- Roof Repairs
- Gas leak
- Water damage
- Electrical short circuit fire
- Flooding damage
- Natural events/storms
- Fire damage
- Hot water heater leak
- A/C heater damage
- Overall property maintenance/safety
Photo credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/dvids/5881176150/in/photolist-9XGyLN-26FS6Wx-q1AVdV-9o3GNk-5m5Pz3-ctwL97-eSoWAu-8EVRmL-5wBq3U-au2E3G-7xzS3
Irreplaceable History Trickling Away
2/7/2018 (Permalink)
Don't let water damage destroy priceless memorabilia.
The worst type of water damage isn’t always the damage caused to the building, but what is inside the building. This is the case for the library department at Eastern New Mexico University located in Portales, New Mexico. While faculty and students alike were at home enjoying the last week of their winter break, a disaster struck. Unbeknownst to them a pipe in the ceiling busted due to the cold temperatures.
When the faculty returned to their beloved library, they arrived to find a portion of books located in their closed stacks area to be damaged by water. Due to the busted pipes in the ceiling, water began to build up until the ceiling boards. After enough buildup the ceiling caved in causing water to rush downwards, building up on the floor, corrupting invaluable history in the form of literature.
This was the true disaster awaiting the library staff on their return from their winter break. Some books had autographs of authors long past, but the text can still be bought anew. Other documents were of intimate history directly related to the school, such as editions of the student newspapers dating all the way back to its inception in 1934. With no digital copies available, these snapshots of history are in danger of being lost forever. Maybe the biggest lost for the library is the Mexican Antiquity Books. A collection of 9 books dating all the way back to the 1700s. The monetary loss of these books (worth thousands of dollars) is nothing compared to the loss of history and culture stored in this books.
No matter the damage to these books, hope has not been lost. The university took the proper procedure in this situation. They called a restoration company to help remediate all of the damage. In this scenario that includes document recovery. Started by flash freezing the papers then putting them through a process that transfers the water directly from a frozen state into the evaporated state, thus skipping the liquid state; the chance of recovering these documents and their information is still possible.
The best defense against unwanted water damage is constant maintenance and upkeep of your pipes. Although accidents can occur no matter how prepared you are; in such a situation don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque, were here to help 24/7, day or night. You can reach us at (505)-828-3567
8 Common Causes of Water Damage
1/31/2018 (Permalink)
Busted/Leaking Pipes
Having leaking or broken pipes is a major cause of water damage in residential and commercial buildings, making them one of the most common causes of water damage. Clogged and backed up toilets create a buildup of pressure in the pipes, which leads to the busting/leaking of these pipes. Another common problem that can develop is with garbage disposals. If a garbage disposal isn’t working correctly it is often due to leaks near the bottom of the unit and floods cabinets with a nasty concoction of food waste and water. Roots from trees and plants around your house can spread into sewer lines causing them to break. Lastly, keep an eye out for old and rusty pipes as they are most prone to leaking.
Plumbing Problems
The good thing about potential plumbing problems is they can be prevented fairly easily with an occasional look over of pipes under your sink or in your basement. Although sometimes plumbing issues are nearly impossible to detect since some pipes are hidden behind walls. Normally these pipes cause trouble because of hoses and pipe joints that aren’t fully connected.
Crawl Space, Basement & Attic Concerns
Basements, attics, and crawl spaces are some of the most prone areas inside a house for water damage. This is in part due to the lack of temperature controls in these areas. Humidity levels in a basement can rise over the course of time with aging infrastructure and hydrostatic pressure buildup. When it comes to crawlspaces and attics, these areas foster dark and damp environments which are ideal for mold growth.
Malfunctioning Household Appliances
The two most common appliances that cause water damage in homes are washing machines and hot water tanks. Other appliances such as refrigerators, dish washers are also at risk of failure. Keep an eye on these old appliance’s pipes. With the heavy usage of these electronics their pipes can start to rust and crack faster than other pipes around your house.
HVACS
HVAC stands for heating, ventilating, & air conditioning units. Specifically air conditioners, due to their use of constant water flow, require regular cleaning and maintenance. When left unkempt moisture can easily buildup leading to water and mold damage.
Weather or Natural Disasters
This is the trickiest cause to deal with. There is little predictability when it comes to natural disasters and weather related problems. Take note of your environment where you live and determine which severe weather conditions are most likely. Once you’ve identified the most concerning natural disasters in your area, take the necessary precautions to help prepare your home. The most notable, natural water disasters include flash floods, severe storms, and hurricanes. Don’t be reactionary, be anticipatory.
Gutters
An oft overlooked cause of water damage is gutters. Due to their presence being on the outside of the house and cleverly tucked around the home it becomes a problem of, out of sight, out of mind. During the summer and all throughout fall debris in the forms of branches and leaves star t to flutter around the air. As debris falls it can gather into drainage gutters and get caught, creating blockage. As rain comes it is no longer able to be filtered away from the side of the house. It begins to flood over the gutters and stream down the side of the house. Additionally, if your gutters have any cracks they may be rendered ineffective. As water flows through the gutters it’ll start to drizzle out of the crack and onto the building instead of down and away from it. This constant flow of water can lead to the deterioration of walls due to constant wetness. Even worse, buildup can form around the structure of the home, leading to water leaking into the home (such as the basement), resulting in constant leaks or mold.
Flat Roofs
If you have a home with a flat roof you are at a higher risk of experiencing water trouble on your roof. Most flat roofs are built with a minor incline to prevent rainfall from forming standing water on the roof. This slight incline allows the water to drain off the roof. Flat roof water trouble comes when debris, manmade and from nature, starts to accumulate on the roof. With enough weight this can cause enough pressure to the weakest points of the flat roof which can cause the roof to warp ever so slightly inward. Water will start to pool up on the roof at these warped areas. During the coldest times of the year water can start to freeze up near the drainage point of the flat roof. Ice dams start to form, preventing the drainage of water from the roof. If this goes on frequently and long enough water can start to damage the roof of your house and eve n create cracks which turn into leaks. These leaks cause moisture to seep into the ceiling of your house. The problem turns from standing water on your roof to water damage and mold damage on the roof and ceiling of your home.
Saving Water Damaged Carpet
12/12/2017 (Permalink)
It takes less than an inch of water to cause serious water damage to the carpeting in your home. Not only is the carpet itself soaked, but the padding beneath is ruined, and the flooring and drywall may also end up warping or cracking. Basically, it makes for a lot of problems.
In almost every case, the easiest thing to do would be to simply throw the damaged carpet out and start all over again with new, but for some reason, there are folks who exist in this world who feel it necessary to do all they can to save their carpeting. The good news is, it can be done. The bad news is, once you do it, you may find yourself convinced that throwing it out should have been your first choice.
But I digress. Water damaged carpets can be cleaned, provided that they have been soaked for less than 48 hours, and provided that the water in question is not sewage based. If you have a sewage problem, skip the rest of this article and just throw the carpet out. You’ve got far more serious issues to contend with. Trust me on this one.
When it comes to cleaning a water damaged carpet, the first thing to do (as with any kind of water damage) is to locate the source of the water and shut it off. This prevents more water from coming in, but it also allows you to determine what kind of water you’re dealing with.
The excess water damage will need to be removed from the carpet. Usually this is accomplished through the use of a wet dry vac unit or pump. Most of the water can be removed during this process, but not all of it. The bad news is that the carpet will still retain a good bit of moisture, not to mention that found beneath the carpet or in the walls. The good news is that the carpet should now be light enough to lift.
Yes, children, I said lift. The carpet will need to be taken up and moved outside to completely dry, preferably somewhere that it can be laid flat, such as a patio or driveway, and in direct sunlight. You can also use fans or blowers to help speed the process along. Laying the carpet out flat is imperative…..otherwise it may dry unevenly and may not even fit back into the room from whence it came.
Once the carpet is dried out, it will need to be clean, disinfected, and sanitized…..twice. That’s right, once it’s all done, do it again for good measure. You want it to be as clean and fresh as it can possibly be before putting it back down.
While the carpet is drying, don’t neglect the flooring. Chuck all the padding out the door and replace it with new padding. Trying to repair damaged carpet padding is an exercise in futility. Don’t put yourself through it. Make sure the flooring is dried out, cleaned, disinfected, sanitized, you know the drill. All surfaces must be completely dry before the carpet is put back down, or else you’re inviting mold to start growing.
Depending on the depth of the water, check the surrounding drywall for the telltale stains or swelling that usually accompany water damage. The drywall may have to be cut and either partially or wholly replaced.
Remember, the operative word in the whole operation is “dry”. Everything must be completely dried out in order to prevent subsequent problems from materializing.
Again, my advice would be to call in an airstrike and start all over again, but if you are one of those folks who believe that your carpet can be saved, and that we have the technology, etc etc……then the good news is that it can be done, provided you act swiftly and thoroughly.
New Mexico and Monsoon Damage
12/12/2017 (Permalink)
The intense rains and high winds of monsoon season in the Southwest here. The high concentration of moisture and very real flash flooding risk during monsoon months can wreak havoc on the exteriors of homes and other buildings.
If you find yourself requiring assistance with roof leaks or water in your home or business, contact us today.
SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque specializes in providing ‘round the clock flood restoration services during monsoon season, and any time that we are needed. Deferred maintenance only exacerbates the consequences of heavy rainfall, so don't hesitate to contact us at the first signs of water damage. Safety and prompt attention to detail are top priorities with our company.
We react quickly and are licensed, bonded, and insured. Our IICRC certified team understands the safety measures to take when addressing hidden flooding dangers that become apparent during severe weather. Heavy rainfall can cause unexpected emergency leaking and flooding situations, and it is important to know who to turn to when immediate assistance is required.
SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque boasts an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, and is the top choice for flood restoration services. Again, deferred maintenance will only cause further damage to both the structure and integrity of any building impacted by monsoon season. In addition to keeping up to date with weather trends and forecasts, have the SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque phone number handy with your disaster supply kit and supplies— 505-828-3567. We are available and capable to quickly respond to any monsoon emergency that you may experience.
Beware of Pipe Corrosion in Your Home or Business
12/12/2017 (Permalink)
Property owners should understand that water supply lines or pressurized toilet tanks can create flooding dangers inside a residential or commercial structure, leading to significant damages to a building’s materials and structure. To prevent a flooding incident that can cause serious damage to a structure’s walls, floors or ceilings, at SERVPRO Albuquerque Restoration, we recommend checking all of a building’s plumbing fixtures inside and outside of a building frequently.
Some signs that a line is degrading is seeing metal corrosion or drops of moisture near the item, and if there is damage to the lines, then property owners should arrange an immediate repair.
However, if the lines do break our customers should move away from flooding dangers such as slippery floors or wet electrical wires, and contact us immediately anytime of the day or night for prompt remediation services. Because our technicians have IICRC certification, we are able to remove the clean moisture from broken water lines in addition to the dirty wastewater from a failing pressurized toilet tank. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification organization helps to train our technicians to make expert flood restoration repairs.
At SERVPRO Albuquerque Restoration, we are ready to assist homeowners or business managers with flood restoration repairs after water supply lines degrade, leading to damage inside a building from the invading moisture. Located in Albuquerque, our technicians have IICRC certification, ensuring that our customers receive the most specialized repairs after a business or home flooding incident. Contact us for fast remediation services at 505-828-3567
Average Cost of Water Damage Restoration
12/11/2017 (Permalink)
Consumers may be surprised to learn just how much water damage restoration may cost them in their home state.
Most homeowners aren’t as vigilant about water damage as they should be, which can potentially lead to problems down the road. The potential for a disaster is often underestimated, as burst pipes or damage acquired from storms aren’t usually pressing concerns until after they’ve occurred. Many homeowners don’t know how to spot the signs of water damage while it’s still in its infancy, letting simple fixes become larger projects than they need to be.
While the average costs for water damage restoration services in the United States tabulates to $2,990, some states have worked harder than others to attribute to that figure. Averages for states like Nevada and Florida come in at nearly double what homeowners should expect to pay in other areas of the country.
The Ten States with Highest Water Damage Restoration Costs
While some states boast average costs that are reasonable, falling within the realm of affordability for most homeowners, some states boast shocking highs. If you own property in one of the following states, you’ll find you may need to make some considerations regarding the risks that water damage may impose on your home.
1. Nevada: $4,910
2. Florida: $4,400
3. Minnesota: $3,630
4. Massachusetts: $3,430
5. California: $3,420
6. New Jersey: $3,350
7. Texas: $3,280
8. Washington D.C.: $3,250
9. Georgia: $3,220
10. Pennsylvania: $3,200
This data excludes Vermont, South Dakota, North Dakota, Hawaii, and Alaska, as Restoration Local does not yet serve these states.
For the full breakdown of averages in each state they serve, please click here.
What Can Be Determined From These Figures
A variety of factors contribute to these average restoration costs. In some situations, the cost of labor and materials in these states may be slightly higher than others. The magnitude of these costs can also be attributed to other sources that are far more complicated. It could very well be that these states are subject to a multitude of factors that can cause or hasten water damage.
For example, many areas of Nevada are subject to flash flooding. Florida is covered in waterfront property, and also highly susceptible to hurricanes. The winters in Minnesota and Massachusetts are harsh, which can lead to pipes freezing and thawing, causing the weakened pipes to burst. Georgia has humid summers, which can support the spread of mold in garages, closets, and basements. Certain environmental factors can multiply the risks of serious water damage, depending on the region in which the affected property is located.
These figures could be significantly lowered if homeowners understood the risk of water damage on their properties and were quicker to implement preventative measures. There are plenty of steps a homeowner can take, such as repairing roof issues the moment they appear, waterproofing vulnerable crawlspaces, or regularly inspecting their pipes, that can reduce the potential for serious water damage that would require restoration services.
Early detection and prevention are the keys to bringing this figure down. Water damage left unchecked becomes more serious over the course of time, and extensive damage simply costs more to repair. Homeowners should keep a watchful eye over vulnerable areas of their homes, setting safeguards in place when necessary. Preventative measures are always a worthy investment, especially if a few small expenses are substantially less than the average cost of restoring damage. At the first signs of water damage, homeowners should contact a restoration specialist to deal with issues the moment they arise.
Water Damage Advice
12/4/2017 (Permalink)
Advice That Can Help You With All Your Water Damage Issues
If your house experiences water damage don’t waste any time, begin cleaning up right away. Time is of the essence when dealing with water damage. The longer you wait to tackle the problem the more difficult it will be to restore your possessions back to their original condition. If you are a handyman by hobby you might be able to fix a small leak by yourself, if you have a more serious problem than a small leak you should call a water damage restoration professional for assistance in cleaning up.
Water damage is one of the most common problems experienced by homeowners in the United States. It is the second most common reason for filing an insurance claim, and annual losses due to water damage are close to $3 billion. Nearly 40 percent of homeowners will have to file a water damage claim at some point during their lives.
Different Causes Of Water Damage
There are a number of different causes that can lead to water damage. Depending on where you live, although less prominent in New Mexico, a heavy rainstorm can cause flooding in your area. This flooding can seep into basements, causing several inches of standing water in it. Another source of water damage can be caused through plumbing problems, like a clogged toilet or leaking/broken pipes. Lastly, older water heaters can start to leak, thus causing a flood in your home.
When you discover flooding or water damage in your home, there are certain steps that you need to take right away. If the water is coming from your plumbing or water heater, shut the water supply to your home off right away. This will prevent any more water from entering your home.
Once your water supply has been shut off try to move as many of your possessions as you can to higher ground where they will be safe from any standing water. Focus on valuable or irreplaceable items first, such as personal documents, family heirlooms, and electronic equipment. The sooner that you can get these away from the water, the less likely they are to get irreparably damaged.
Some Tips On What Not To Do When Your Home Is Flooded
The first and most important tip may seem obvious, but in a time a of panic common sense can elude the best of us. Due to obvious dangers, never use electronic equipment when your home has been flooded. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, so using electronics puts you at risk. Additionally, the wiring in your house may have been damaged by the flood. This makes it important to get an electrician to inspect your house and make any needed repairs before you plug anything back in.
Once you’ve cleared yourself of the dangers talked about above, be sure to file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. Aside from getting yourself safe, this should be the first step taken in your process to recovery. The sooner you get this process started, the sooner you can receive your funds to help you recover your house. However, you need to know what is covered by your homeowner’s insurance. Some insurance policies may not cover flooding or other types of water damage. If yours does not, you may want to purchase additional coverage to provide more protection.
After you have contacted your insurance agent, they can help you find a water damage restoration professional whom can help you start cleaning up the damage as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque responds within 2-4 hours as to help minimalize any damage to your home and belongings. Especially when dealing with severe flooding, it is necessary to hire a professional who has specialized equipment to properly remediate the water damage. Professionals don’t just clean the water damage, they make sure no moisture is left to prevent any mold damage from growing and causing more problems.
The Problem of Mold and the Prevention of its Growth
Time is crucial when drying any areas affected by water damage. If moisture is left to sit for mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 hours after a flood. Mold spore are very small and can spread throughout your home undetected, which can lead to health problems. Mold is sneaky and can start to grow inside your walls or underneath floorboards. This is because these types of materials hold in moisture which helps the mold to grow. Sometimes mold doesn’t make itself aware to occupants until it has already taken foothold inside a home.
Due to the extra possibility of water damage causing mold growth, water damage is a very serious problem that shouldn’t be put off. Do not try to cut corners when it comes to water damage. Instead, call an experienced water damage restoration professional for assistance. Us at SERVPRO of NE Albuquerque will be willing and able to provide the expertise that you need to restore your home to a livable condition.
Winter Is Coming! Prepare Your Pipes!
11/2/2017 (Permalink)
The only thing longer than waiting for Game of Thrones season 8 to come out is the mythical "winter" that they have been preparing for. In the spirit of this much beloved show we want to help you prepare for the real winter that is upon us.
To help you secure your personal fortress from the harsh elements of winter, it's important to take care of your pipes. Busted pipes cause stress and can run up a hefty bill to fix. Before winter is in full effect take preventative measures to help avert the risk of frozen pipes and other cold-weather threats. Without further discourse let's begin to PREPARE YOUR PIPES!
Priority Areas
The first step in protecting your pipes is to identify the most at risk areas and give those sections priority. These areas include:
- Exposed pipes in unheated areas of the house.
- Pipes located in exterior walls.
- Any plumbing on the exterior of the home.
Precaution Measures for Outside (External Threats!)
A simple hose can be the cause of major pipe damages. This is because if water inside the hose freezes it can cause pressure buildup inside the entire plumbing system. Since As the pressure builds, older pipes can crack, which leads to leaking and busted pipes. This is why one of the simplest and first precautions to take is to disconnect your hose, drain any water inside of it, and store the hose before the first severe freeze of the season.
If you don’t have frost-proof spigots, close the interior shut-off valve leading to that faucet, open and drain the spigot, and install a faucet insulator. They cost only a couple bucks and are worth every penny.
Uncovered Inside Plumbing (Inside Threats!)
When most people think of busted pipes inside a home they think of pipes in an basement. This is a possibility but it isn't the most problematic area because the basement is a heated area of the house. Busted plumbing pipes are most common in unheated spaces in the house such as the garage, attic, or crawl spaces.
Often, economical foam pipe insulation is enough for somewhat cold climates. For very cold climates, opt for wrapping problem pipes with thermostatically controlled heat tape (ranging from $50 to $200, contingent upon length), which will turn on at certain minimum temps.
Under-Insulated Walls (Fortify Your Walls!)
One way to tell if some of your walls are under-insulated is if you have needed water damage repair or mold cleanup inside your walls before. This is often a case of inadequately installed insulation. In cold climates it's worth considering opening up your walls to improve your insulation for a couple hundred of dollars instead of paying for more expensive water damage or mold removal later.
Once you have assessed all potential threats to your pipes it's time for you to go inside and "man the fort". So get nice and cozy inside your home, pour yourself some hot chocolate, and stay alert because winter is among us my friends!
Massive storm floods ABQ homes, businesses
7/31/2013 (Permalink)
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —Friday's powerful storm not only damaged trees and power lines, it also flooded homes and businesses. Now, restoration companies are working to mop up the mess.
Martin Luther King Avenue and Broadway Boulevard looked like a lake this weekend. All of that water had to go somewhere and it went into businesses just down the street.
After the storm bombarded the metro, restoration companies like Servpro, are getting bombarded with phone calls.
"Here we got a one thousand volt shock, our systems can't handle it," said Harry Weingardt with Servpro Restoration. "We expect volume during monsoon, but not like this.You get 35 calls in one day."
The monster downpour flooded homes and several businesses, causing thousands of dollars in damages to floors, walls and anything in the water's path.
Not being able to handle all of the water seemed to be the biggest problem for most buildings and homes flooded this weekend.
Now, it could take weeks for buildings to dry out.
By: Regina Ruiz
Read more: http://www.koat.com/news/new-mexico/albuquerque/massive-storm-floods-abq-homes-businesses/-/9153728/21245846/-/2j7na6/-/index.html#ixzz2aeY66U1J
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