Water Damage and Homeowners Insurance: Navigating the Claims Process

2/5/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can wreak havoc on your home and personal belongings, making homeowners insurance coverage essential. Navigating the claims process can be complex and overwhelming. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of water damage coverage, steps to take when filing a claim, and tips for successfully navigating the homeowners insurance claims process.

Understand Your Coverage

Before experiencing water damage, it's crucial to understand your homeowners insurance policy's coverage. Different policies may vary in terms of what types of water damage are covered and under what circumstances. Review your policy documents carefully, paying attention to exclusions, deductibles, and limitations. Understanding your coverage will help you manage your expectations and make informed decisions.

Document the Damage

When you discover water damage in your home, it's important to document the extent of the damage. Take photographs and videos to create a visual record that can support your claim. Make a detailed inventory of the affected items, noting their value, age, and condition. This documentation will help substantiate your claim during the insurance company's evaluation.

Mitigate Further Damage

As a responsible homeowner, it's essential to mitigate further damage after experiencing water damage. Take immediate action to prevent any additional harm from occurring. This may include stopping the water source, drying out affected areas, and arranging for necessary repairs. Keep records and receipts of any emergency measures taken to present to the insurance company.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Once you've documented the damage and taken steps to mitigate further harm, promptly notify your insurance company about the water damage incident. Contact them to initiate the claims process and provide them with all the necessary information, including the documentation you have gathered. Be prepared to explain the cause of the damage and provide any relevant details regarding the incident.

Work with an Adjuster and Follow Instructions

After filing a claim, your insurance company will likely assign an adjuster to assess the damage. Cooperate with the adjuster, provide them access to your property, and provide any additional information they request. Follow their instructions for obtaining repair estimates and quotes, and keep a record of all communication with the insurance company and adjuster.

Review and Appeal the Decision if Necessary

Once the insurance company completes its evaluation, they will provide a decision regarding your claim. Carefully review the decision and assess if it covers the full extent of your water damage expenses. If you disagree with the decision or believe it is inadequate, consult your insurance policy and consider appealing the decision through the insurance company's established process.

Navigating the homeowners insurance claims process for water damage can be overwhelming, but understanding your coverage and following the correct steps can significantly improve your chances of a successful claim. By being proactive, documenting the damage, and working closely with your insurance company, you can ensure a smoother claims process and a faster path to recovering from water damage.

Mold Growth After Water Damage: How to Prevent and Treat the Silent Intruder

10/25/2023 (Permalink)

For severe mold growth, it is advisable to seek assistance from certified mold remediation professionals.

Water damage in homes or buildings is an unfortunate event that can lead to various challenges, one of which is the growth of mold. Mold thrives in damp environments and can quickly spread, causing not only damage to the property but also posing potential risks to occupants. In this blog post, we will explore effective strategies for preventing mold growth after water damage and the necessary steps for treatment if mold does occur.

Preventing Mold Growth:

Act quickly: Time is of the essence when it comes to preventing mold growth. Address water damage promptly and start the drying process as soon as possible to minimize the chances of mold spores taking hold.

Proper ventilation: Good airflow helps to prevent excessive moisture buildup. Ensure that your property has adequate ventilation, especially in areas prone to humidity, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

Monitor indoor humidity levels: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50%. Using dehumidifiers can be helpful in reducing moisture in the air and discouraging mold growth.

Remove wet materials: Discard or dry out any wet or water-damaged materials, such as carpets, furniture, and drywall, within 48 hours to prevent mold growth.

Fix leaks and address water infiltration: Promptly repair any leaks in your plumbing, roof, or foundation that may be causing water damage. Regularly inspect your property for signs of water intrusion, such as damp spots or discoloration, and address them immediately.

Treating Mold Growth:

Safety first: Before attempting any mold remediation, ensure you take proper safety precautions. Wear protective clothing, gloves, goggles, and an N-95 respirator mask to avoid inhalation of mold spores.

Contain the affected area: Use plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal off the impacted area from the rest of the property. This helps prevent the spread of mold spores during the cleaning process.

Remove mold-infested materials: Throw away porous materials heavily infested with mold, such as carpets, mattresses, and upholstered furniture. Non-porous materials can usually be cleaned and salvaged.

Clean and disinfect: Thoroughly clean the affected area with a solution of water and detergent. Once dry, disinfect the area with a mold-killing product approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Proper disposal: Bag and dispose of any mold-infested materials promptly and appropriately. Ensure that they are sealed tightly to avoid spreading mold spores during disposal.

Consult professionals: For severe mold growth or if you are uncertain about handling the remediation process, it is advisable to seek assistance from certified mold remediation professionals who have the expertise, experience, and equipment to effectively treat the issue.

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to mold growth after water damage. By taking immediate action and implementing proper preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of mold infestation in your home or building. However, if mold does occur, it is crucial to address it promptly and effectively to safeguard both your property and its occupants.

Avoiding Water Damage in Your Home

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

Avoiding Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage is a serious issue that can cause a lot of harm to your Leawood, KS home. You may not realize it, but water damage can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can harm the health of those living in the home. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to avoid water damage in your home. Here are some tips on how you can prevent water from getting into your house:

1. Check Outside Pipes, Spigots, and Hoses

If you find a leaky pipe or hose that is not in use, turn off the water supply to it immediately and then repair the leak. Also, check your home's foundation for holes or cracks that could let water seep into your basement during heavy rains or snow melt-downs. Leaks in your roof can cause significant damage if they're not detected early on because they can lead to mold growth inside the house and even structural damage as well as costly repairs down the road when these leaks are left unfixed for too long!

2. Keep an Eye on Your Windows

In addition to checking your gutters and rain barrels, keep an eye on your windows. Checking for water damage can be as simple as looking at the exterior of your home. If you see any streaks, discoloration or peeling paint on any window frames, it may be time to call a professional.

• Check window seals. Check that all seals are intact and in good condition. If they're damaged or broken, they won't keep out moisture or cold air—and that's when water damage begins!
• Check window caulking. Make sure there is no mold growing behind your caulk lines where moisture can get trapped between walls and windowsills (or other surfaces). Caulk should be applied with a thick bead approximately 3/8 inch wide to ensure it seals properly against both sides of the window frame (or another surface). The bead needs to reach slightly past each end of the joint where two materials meet; otherwise, it will not form a proper seal between them.
• Check for signs of condensation collecting between panes of glass in double-hung windows.

3. Do Not Plant Trees Near the Foundation

If you have trees near your home, be sure to plant them at least 10 feet away from the foundation of your house. Trees can cause damage to the foundation and cause water damage if they are too close. 

4. Keep Your Gutters Clean

The gutter should be cleaned at least twice a year, and more often if it is clogged or damaged. It's also important to ensure that the gutters aren't too full of debris—ideally, you'll want there to be enough room for water flow so that it doesn't overflow into your home. If possible, remove debris like leaves and sticks before they can enter the gutter.

5. Check Your Roof for Leaks

Check your roof for leaks regularly. You can do this by climbing up on the roof, but it's easier to use a flashlight and check from ground level. Look in the attic, gutters, and around vents for any water stains or dampness that could indicate a leak. Check for loose tiles or other signs of damage on the shingles, as well as cracks in the foundation where water could enter through them.

Water is a powerful force that can cause serious damage if not handled properly. As long as you use common sense and take the time to check your Leawood, KS home regularly for leaks and other problems, you will be able to avoid water damage. If you do have a water damage problem, SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa is here to help you get back to normal as soon as possible! 

Can Drain Cleaner Damage Pipes?

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Can Drain Cleaner Damage Pipes?

Drain cleaners are a quick, easy way to unclog your drains. They're especially useful when you've got a major clog that can't be fixed with simple measures like plunging or plunging and flushing. Drain cleaners contain powerful chemicals that can eat away at the gunk in your pipes and help clear them out, but these chemicals aren't good for any material around them—including pipes themselves. If you use too much of this stuff regularly, there's a chance it could damage your pipes over time. Here's what you need to know about using drain cleaner safely.

Drain cleaners often referred to as lye or caustic soda, can unclog drains by eating through the gunk blocking the pipe.

The main ingredient in drain cleaner is sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which reacts with fats and oils to form soap bubbles that float up the pipe. This process works well on most materials but not all: some of these clogs are made of concrete porcelain or other hard materials that don't dissolve easily when exposed to harsh chemicals like sodium hydroxide.

The reaction between sodium hydroxide and fats occurs very quickly—in fact, under ideal conditions (like warm water), it only takes about 30 seconds for a drain cleaner solution to start working!

The chemicals in drain cleaners don't just eat away at organic material in drains, they can also eat away at the pipes themselves.

Drain cleaners are not just for organic materials. They can, in fact, damage pipes made of soft metal such as copper or aluminum.

If you have a drain cleaner that contains a chemical called sodium hydroxide (also known as caustic soda), it's best to be careful when using it on your drains and water heater. When combined with water, sodium hydroxide produces heat and some level of corrosion. If the solution is left in contact with the piping long enough, it could cause permanent damage to those pipes made from soft metals like copper or aluminum by eating away at them over time.

If your pipes are made from a soft metal like copper or aluminum, you might notice almost immediately that your pipes are being damaged by drain cleaner. These types of metals can be dissolved by sulfuric acid (the main ingredient in drain cleaner) and will wear away quickly if it's left in contact with them for too long. You may even see corrosion on the outside of the pipe after using this cleaning method, as well as inside where no one will see it—making it difficult to tell if there is any damage at all until a later time.

If you have clogs in your drain and want to tackle them without risking damage to your pipes, there are a few things you can do.

If you have clogs in your Olathe, KS drain and want to tackle them without risking damage to your pipes, there are a few things you can do.

The first thing to try is using a plunger to try clearing the clog. If this doesn't work, you can use a plumber's snake or even a wire coat hanger as an alternative method for removing the blockage. If either of these options fail, call a plumber immediately—the problem may not be fixable by yourself and could cause major damage if left untreated. Lastly, if the clog is still there after trying all these methods, then it's time for drastic measures: drain cleaner!

Using drain cleaner too much can damage pipes.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you've used drain cleaner too much.

• The chemicals that are used in drain cleaners are strong and can eat away at pipes.
• Using them too much can cause your pipes to become brittle and break more easily.
• Damage caused by using this product is not always visible immediately, so it's important to be aware of the signs that something might be wrong with your pipes.

Drain cleaners can be a convenient way to unclog your drains, but they should be used with caution. If you have clogs in your drain and want to tackle them without risking damage to your pipes, there are a few things you can do. First, try using some baking soda and vinegar or boiling water to loosen up the gunk before calling in a professional like SERVPRO of Olathe/ Lenexa. If those techniques don’t work, call an expert who knows what they’re doing so that they can fix the problem without causing further damage!

What Are Unusual Ways Minor Water Damage Becomes a Big Problem in My Home?

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is committed to mitigating the water damage to homes of Lenexa, KS

Resolving Water Events of All Sizes Fast Is How SERVPRO Protects Lenexa Homes from Big Losses

Famous last words from a homeowner struggling with expensive and disruptive water property destruction often start with a rueful statement that the cause seemed like a relatively minor problem. Mopping up a puddle inside a cabinet or putting down a towel under the refrigerator because you believe, without any real proof, that the kids spill water daily, quickly show to be inadequate short-term “band-aid” solutions. We can help residential property owners in Lenexa, KS when water loss circumstances require comprehensive and analytical assessment and permanent professional resolutions.

What Are Little Leaks in My House Telling Me?

When homeowners choose to minimize the importance of repeated water damage in their Lenexa home, they run the risk of severe, permanent, and expensive damage. Anytime you see water, where it should not be, an alert should sound. For example, a recurring leak around or in the tracks of a sliding casement window may signal something much more sinister than your failure to close it during a rainstorm. What in reality is happening could be structural leaking due to one or more of the following:

Can Water Leak Through a Window Frame?

Water can intrude around a window frame because:

• Buildings settle, and temperature and humidity fluctuations can cause wood framing around openings to swell and shrink, warping the window or the frame so that gaps permit water to leak inside.
• Installation issues, including failure to use effective vapor barriers and specialized flashings.
• Dried-out glazing putty, poorly applied paint, and failed caulking beads all contribute to improper seals which allow water seepage.
• Leaks in the roof or the siding above the window can percolate inside the cavity between the interior and exterior wall, eventually breaking through and damaging your home through the window opening.
• Settlement in the foundation that skews the square of windows and doors

How Can Condensation and Appliance Use Cause Water Damage in My Home?

A common household water damage source in many Lenexa, KS homes is condensation. It might feel like an annoyance rather than a threat, but homeowners must address the challenges of condensation forming in unexpected places or failing to drain appropriately. Where is condensation likely to become a problem?

Air Conditioners

Many AC systems use condensation to cool by reducing the humidity inside your home. Warm, moist air flows over cold coils, and moisture condenses on the cold surfaces. The now-liquid water vapor moves into a drain pan and funnels into a condensate drain line. If the drain pan cracks or the drain line is clogged, the water can flow down walls and onto floors.

Refrigerators and Freezers

The refrigerators and freezers can collect ice from the compressor coils that provide the cold and freezing air inside these appliances. Self-defrosting units periodically move through a warming cycle to reduce the ice, which is frozen condensation. Similarly to the drainage in an AC system, if the drain pan cracks or drainage line clogs, water can escape and saturate the floor under the appliance.

Labor-saving devices are many in the average home. Typically, these appliances use water, often plumbed directly through pipes and houses. Homeowners can take these conveniences for granted, surprised at how often water damage can stem from their use.

Water and Ice Maker Supply Lines

Increasingly refrigerators are equipped with water dispensers and automatic ice machines. Freestanding ice makers are also common. The freshwater lines that provided the water can leak, often without notice, as they are threaded through walls and behind cabinets.

Dishwashers and Laundry Machines

The pumps and hoses used by dish and clothing washers can fail or crack, spilling water in kitchens or utility rooms. The leaks can start very small, but the accumulated corrosive effect of many days, weeks, or even months of water seeping onto fixtures and structural components takes a heavy toll.

How Does Water from Leaks and Condensation Drainage Negatively Affect Your Home?

The water leaking from waste or supply lines or spilling from drains can collect under appliances, saturate cabinets, soak carpets and several layers of flooring, and even destroy drywall. Structural components become weakened, and mold damage can become an issue. A failure to intervene earlier might now necessitate extensive repairs and even partial demolition.

How Can a Water Restoration Company Help?

Our team at SERVPRO has the training, experience, and equipment to assess what seems like insignificant water damage before it becomes a crisis. If the water damage has caught you unaware and built up to a significant problem before we arrive, we also are capable of scaling our services to manage even complex water loss scenarios.

4 Tips for Drying Out a Water-damaged Building

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Olathe/ Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue can properly assess the safety of the area as well as provide help drying, sanitizing, and repairing.

4 Steps to Drying Out a Flooded Building

Whether your commercial space has been hit by a natural flood or a leaking pipe, it is crucial to dry out the structure to limit the extent of water damage. A water damage cleaning and restoration company can properly assess the safety of the area as well as provide help drying, sanitizing, and repairing the space. However, there are a few things you can do before help arrives to get ahead of the situation. Here are four damage tips in the event your Shawnee, KS, property has been infiltrated by water.

1. Consider Safety First
Always be cautious when dealing with a flooded area. Consider your personal safety before entering a water-logged space and be wary of electric shock hazards and harmful elements within the water such as sewage. 

2. Check for a Pipe Burst or Other Cause of Water
Once the area is safe to enter, one of the most important damage tips is to determine the source of water. Doing so may be able to pinpoint the damage and most of the repair work to one area, such as a bathroom with overflowing toilets or one area of the roof that’s leaking.

3. Open Windows
Opening the building's windows may sound simple, but it is actually one of the most important cleaning tips you can do before restoration professionals step in. This allows for air circulation and can help to draw moisture from the building.

4. Don’t Force the Drying Process
Until help arrives, it may be tempting to crank up the heating or cooling systems to dry out the building. However, this may end up causing more damage. Allow for experts to assess the situation and develop a plan for drying.

When water hits your business, keep these damage tips in mind to get a head start on the drying and repair process until help arrives.

The Process for Efficiently Draining a Flooded Basement

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

Since the water will need to be lifted from the basement to a higher level, industrial water pumps are often essential.

The Method For Draining A Flooded Basement Quickly

A basement flood calls for a fast and knowledgeable response. The livability of your home in Prairie Village , KS, demands this. The process is not an easy one and each situation is a little different, but an experienced water damage restoration franchise will know exactly what to do. Trained technicians will arrive on the scene soon after being called and will immediately assess the situation. A project manager will develop an efficient plan to remove water and limit damage to the home and its belongings.

Water Removal From a Flooded Basement

Since the water will need to be lifted from the basement to a higher level, industrial water pumps are often essential. This submersible equipment will operate off the power from a vehicle or it will connect to the home power supply. Once in place, the pumps rapidly remove water from the home, pumping out gallons every minute. Fast water removal from a basement flood has numerous benefits:

• A reduction in water damage
  
• An increase in safety
  
• A decrease in humidity levels
  
• A clarification of the situation

Once the standing water is gone, the project manager can reassess the situation. The next step is usually to use wet vacuums for smaller water amounts and then dry out the moisture in the basement.

Home Cleanup and Restoration

Much remains to be done after the basement is dry, including talking with your agent about insurance coverage. The source of the problem will be looked at to prevent a recurrence. Technicians will also look for damage to electrical components, drywall, carpeting and insulation. Professional cleaning and sanitizing will kill germs and prevent the growth of mold. Any damaged structures will be restored before the job is complete.

The success of cleaning up a basement flood begins with the efficient removal of water. It then proceeds to a complete restoration of the impacted area.

5 Easy Steps To Fix a Leaky Faucet

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Fixing A Leaky Faucet In 5 Easy Steps

An unattended leaking faucet can lead to water-damaged homes in Mission, KS. Before needing a restoration company, you can follow these steps to fix your dripping faucet.

1. Shut Off Water Supply

Turn off the water by either twisting the valve underneath your sink or shutting off your home’s water supply. Leave the faucet on to drain any remaining water from the line. Then plug the drain so you don't lose any tools or parts.

2. Remove Handle

If your faucet has a decorative cover, remove it first with a flat head screwdriver. Then use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the nail underneath the cover. Other faucets have a nail behind the handle, which can be removed with an Allen wrench or hex key. Now pull the handle free.

3. Determine the Type of Faucet

There are four different faucet types: compression, ceramic-disk, cartridge and ball. Knowing what kind of faucet you have tells you what parts you need to replace. A compression faucet has two screw handles for hot and cold water. The other three types have one arm that swivels between hot and cold water. Once you take the handle apart, you can tell what kind it is. A ceramic-disk faucet has a ceramic cylinder, a cartridge has a cartridge and a ball has a ball bearing.

4. Replace Leaking Faucet Parts

For a compression faucet, replace the O-rings if the handles are leaking. Change the seat washer if the tap is dripping. To fix ceramic-disk faucets, remove the escutcheon cap and disk cylinder. Then soak the seals in white vinegar before replacing them. For cartridge faucets, remove the faucet spout and replace the O-rings. Ball faucets require a kit with special tools to replace the O-rings and install new cam washers, springs and valve seats.

5. Reinstall Handle

Reattach the faucet handle and clear your workspace. Ensure proper function by running hot and cold water.

A fixed leak provides peace of mind knowing you and your home are safe from a leaking faucet and water damage. The time and effort are worth the sense of security.

How To File Insurance Claim After a Storm

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

How To File An Insurance Claim Following A Storm

Dealing with the aftermath of a major storm can be a huge burden in Lenexa, KS. Between handling water damage, restoring your home and returning your life back to normal, filing an insurance claim can feel more complicated than it truly is. While the process may seem intimidating, you can get through it swiftly if you remain organized and follow these four steps.

1. Call Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance provider as soon as you can to initiate the claims process. Confirm what is covered under your policy and the amount of your deductible. Ask your provider what information they need to process your claim and get an estimate for how long the process will take. Be sure to provide them with your contact information in case they have any questions.

2. Make Temporary Repairs

If you notice any damage that requires immediate attention, do not wait for the home adjuster’s visit to make the repairs. For example, if you find a pipe burst or standing water in your home, call a flood cleanup and restoration specialist immediately to keep the damage from escalating. If you fail to fix the issue and more damage occurs as a result, your claim could be denied.

3. Prepare for the Home Adjuster

An insurance claim often requires a visit from a home adjuster. Preparing for the visit in advance will make the visit go smoothly and easily. Create a list of all structural damage ahead of time and be prepared to walk the adjuster through each item on the list.

4. Keep Your Receipts

Keep the receipts from your temporary repairs and submit them with your claim. You should also submit receipts for any additional expenses incurred, such as temporary lodging, if you are unable to stay in your home while the repairs are made.

Insurance claims can feel daunting, especially amid making repairs and trying to mitigate damage and costs. However, if you stay organized and focused on the steps listed above, you will move through the process quickly and without delay.

Mitigation Steps Taken After Pipe Bursts in Olathe Homes

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO positions centrifugal air movers to mitigate water damage in an Olathe utility area after a supply line break

Our fast response to clean and restore water-damaged Olathe homes protects properties from further damage.

Mitigation is the initial wave of actions our professionals take when we are first notified of a water damage incident for a local home or business. Our fast response to emergencies ensures that specific actions targeting the worst damage get started as soon as possible.

Clearing Surface Water Concerns

Initially, water damage mitigation in Olathe homes must target active threats directly like standing surface water. Pooling of any kind is highly destructive to exposed materials and contents, making it a priority to use various extraction tools and pumps to manage this water threat quickly.

Structural Assessments and Repairs

Our experienced professionals must determine the condition of exposed structural elements. After situations like burst pipes, our general contractor license ensures that repairs can get started quickly. These capabilities also allow us to conduct controlled demolition and full-scale build back when restoration completes.

Thorough Drying Solutions

Drying is one of the earliest processes that our professionals want to start. These options help manage surface water concerns and protect the exposed materials in areas where the damage occurred. Key elements in this process include:

• Axial fans
• Centrifugal air movers
• Portable heaters

Mold Prevention Solutions

Another vital mitigating step that our professionals can take to protect your property further and prevent unnecessary harm is safeguarding against the development of mold and microbial threats. With naturally occurring spores in nearly every environment, moist conditions become a breeding ground for colonies. Inhibitors and cleaning products make certain services uninhabitable by active spores and protect against destructive mold development.

We appreciate the importance of mitigation after a water damage incident in your home. Our commitment that We're Faster To Any Size Disaster means we are arriving quickly to get these emergency services started when they can be the most significant help. Our SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley teams are ready to respond 24/7 at (913) 782-4693.

Emergency Water Removal When You Need It in Olathe

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

On multi-level homes, a leak upstairs can cause water to become trapped in ceilings.

SERVPRO Provides Fast Response for Water Removal to Ensure Your Olathe Home Gets Restored Quickly

When it comes to essential contacts, water removal services should be a number that you always keep on your list. Skilled restoration technicians not only tackle your water cleanup needs but also follow best practices for drying and water damage repairs after any emergency event. Olathe residents can rest easy knowing that SERVPRO is just a phone call away whenever they encounter a leaking roof from storms, basement flooding, or burst pipes. We offer a 24/7 emergency response to handle all of your restoration needs so that the interior of your home is “Like it never even happened.”

There are many reasons you can trust SERVPRO to handle your water damage restoration needs. When you contact us for water removal in Olathe, you can feel confident in our work for the following reasons:

• Our team is made up of IICRC-certified water damage restoration technicians
• We use industrial-grade equipment and advanced technology
• Our Green Fleet arrives fully equipped with tools and products that help us accelerate our efforts to reach our goals easily
• We are locally-owned and operated, featuring a wide variety of national resources

A significant mistake many homeowners make is thinking they can handle water removal with a mop and bucket or a wet/dry vacuum. The fact is that water migrates to dry spaces, often getting trapped behind walls, baseboards, and flooring. We use proven moisture detection methods with advanced equipment to locate and remove hidden moisture pockets. By doing so, we lessen damage and cut costs along the way. Whenever necessary, our team initiates controlled demolition measures to repair or replace unsalvageable materials.

SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley can be reached by calling (913) 782-4693. We are available around the clock for water removal services!

Can Water Damage Restoration Save Wet Walls in an Olathe Home?

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage mitigation by SERVPRO for our Olathe neighbors includes plenty of dehumidifiers and air movers.

Olathe SERVPRO Water Damage Restoration Salvages Wet Drywall, Insulation, and Wall Studs

Water damage can happen anywhere, anytime to Olathe homeowners. A pipe leak that is 1/32" in diameter can consume a whopping 264 gallons per day or 7,920 gallons per month. Without fast action, homeowners can expect much higher water costs, unsalvageable carpeting, buckling drywall, and even mold growth.

SERVPRO acts quickly 24/7 to address water damage restoration needs for Olathe homeowners. Whether the disaster is from a small pipe leak, burst plumbing, or appliance failures, this Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certified firm is available to return the affected property to a clean, pre-disaster state.

SERVPRO Remediates Drywall Water Damage for Olathe Homeowners

SERVPRO techs utilize multiple strategies to preserve salvageable drywall after a pipe leak, including:

• Cutting out non-salvageable, crumbling drywall above the waterline to prevent further saturation
• Sanitizing wall studs and drywall with EPA-registered fungicides to put a stop to mold growth
• Sucking out fiberglass insulation with an insulation vacuum for on- or off-site drying or discarding

After extracting moisture and drying the affected space with centrifugal air movers and dehumidification units, SERVPRO professionals focus on structural repairs, including installing new drywall and baseboards, repainting walls, and odor control with water- or solvent-based deodorizers.

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley are proud to demonstrate that We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster when homeowners call (913) 782-4693.

What Complicates Water Removal From Lenexa Properties?

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of where the leak is found, team SERVPRO can help. Contact our certified technicians 24/7 for effective water removal services.

SERVPRO Helps If Water Damage Repairs Are Necessary as Part of Water Removal

When someone mentions a water leak in a house, you probably imagine a simple removal involving mops and buckets or a wet vacuum. However, extraneous factors in your Lenexa home can complicate the outcome necessitating additional processes. 

A typical case where water removal from your Lenexa home may be complicated is when a PEX waterline gives way in the ceiling or wall space, allowing high volumes of water to soak into the ceiling panels, insulation, and sheetrock. Some of the water might also remain trapped within the cavities. SERVPRO helps provide the additional resources necessary to execute the removal since a simple mop-up cannot suffice.

Advanced resources help ease restorations involving:

• Emergency services water damage
• Burst pipes
• Ceiling leaks

When water intrusion starts from a hidden area, the removal requires demolition and containment before regular extraction and drying. Our SERVPRO IICRC-certified technicians readily perform controlled demolitions, thus reducing the materials destroyed during the renovation effort. For instance, instead of removing entire drywall panels, we cut along water lines, thus removing only the deteriorated sheetrock.  

If water remains trapped in the ceiling, releasing it over the house contents can cause unnecessary damages. Our SERVPRO technicians drill small weep holes, starting close to the walls for extra safety.  After removing the affected insulation and ceiling tiles, we install plastic sheets to cover the area before a new ceiling can be fixed. 

Other tools that help when dealing with water intrusion in cavities include:

• Specialized extraction equipment such as injecti-dry systems
• Special cavity drying equipment with positive or negative air pressure
• Drying mats to remove water trapped in floor cavities

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley help manage challenging water removal processes, restoring any issue at your property, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (913) 782-4693.

What Does Water Cleanup In Olathe Properties Involve?

7/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Helps Remove Visible Soiling, Contamination, and Odors during Water Clean Up

When a property is damaged by clean water, it might be difficult to figure out what cleaning action is necessary for its restoration. Unlike grey or black water, which leaves visible soiling, clean water mostly leaves wet contents or structural materials all over the affected Olathe property. 

It is essential to do a thorough water cleanup in your Olathe home even after a clean water intrusion since various problems can arise if you only dry the wet materials. Our SERVPRO technicians consider the source point of the intruding water when deciding the cleaning processes necessary to resolve issues at your property.

Water intrusions can occur from:

• Burst pipes
• Ceiling leaks
• Leaking roof from storms

Elevated entry points such as roof or ceiling leaks mean that the water passes through voids such as attics or ceilings before trickling on contents within the rooms. Such water collects dust and other debris, which it readily deposits on furniture and other items in the rooms below, soiling them. Cleaning is necessary before drying the items to prevent stains, patches, or streaks.

In case of pipe leaks, the intruding water may remain hidden for some time. The delay creates room for mold and odor development. Cleanup helps ensure the house is habitable after drying off the wet areas. 

SERVPRO IICRC-certified professionals help perform various actions to facilitate cleaning, including:

• Cleaning surfaces with chemical agents
• Applying deodorizers to control smells
• Agitating surfaces to remove unwanted materials

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley handle water cleanup exercises regularly. Call us at (913) 782-4693 for assistance. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Does SERVPRO Complete Water Restoration Work in Olathe?

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

We Employ Advanced Tools and Techniques to Restore Olathe’s Water-Damaged Homes.

The chances of suffering a water-related event like a ruptured pipe or a roof leak in Olathe are greater than you may imagine. If and when you do suffer one, you need help from experts with the right tools and techniques to restore the resulting water damage effectively.

When you experience water damage, SERVPRO has the specialized equipment and knowledge to expertly complete water restoration on your Olathe home. Our trained professionals have skillfully performed countless emergency water damage services in the aftermath of ceiling leaks, burst pipes, basement flooding events, and biohazard remediation situations requiring sewage cleanup. In doing this work, SERVPRO technicians have employed the following tools and techniques:

• Rapid extraction of standing water with wet vacs and state-of-the-art extractors
• Swift drying of interiors using advanced air movers, dehumidifiers, and Injectidry systems
• Cutting edge foggers and injection systems to treat impacted areas and materials
• A broad range of commercial-grade disinfectants and deodorants to effectively sanitize and deodorize residences 

Using these innovative methods and specialized gear, we have often returned homes to their pre-event state faster than other local services could. This is crucial, considering that water damage generally becomes more severe and costly to clean up the longer it takes to remediate it.

With all this in mind, it is comforting to know that SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley are always here to help you with your water restoration needs. Contact us whenever you need us at (913) 782-4693.

What Problems Does Wet Carpet Pose For Water Restoration in Lenexa?

2/28/2021 (Permalink)

Is your home affected by water damage? SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and plenty of experienced technicians.

SERVPRO Techs Can Handle All Types of Water Damage in Lenexa Homes

A wet carpet may seem pretty straightforward, but there can be many issues caused by water saturating the fibers. Not all carpets are the same, and SERVPRO technicians have several methods to determine the best procedure to follow.

The technicians test carpets in Lenexa properties before water restoration goes forward. This simple first step can avoid additional damage that can show up in the form of: 

Shrinkage of the carpet

• Deterioration of the backing
• Bleeding of dyes
• The ruination of the fibers

The techs extract the water and then use drying methods that best fit the carpet type. If bleeding may be an issue, other articles around the carpet get packed out to ensure nothing comes into contact. Tenting to focus the warm, dry air is another common drying tactic. Floating the carpet where one side is loosened so air can get delivered underneath works to dry the carpet rapidly and minimize potential secondary issues. 

Lenexa property owners count on SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley at (913) 782-4693 for water restoration services.

How Did Olathe Shape the Course of American History?

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a successful history in Olathe of water damage cleanup and restoration for our customers

Residents of Olathe would play a role in the course of the American Civil War.

As with most of the major wars that the United States and other foreign powers have gotten involved with, the tipping point was not reached overnight. For the Civil War in the 1800s, Americans were at a divisive point where a conflict was inevitable. Racial and territorial tensions would split the country into halves but left specific territories like Kansas as neutral ground unclaimed by the north or the south. The involvement of those living in settlements like Olathe at this time would ultimately be a driving point in the escalation of this inevitable conflict, especially with the direct interaction with Missouri residents.

Kansas Could Choose for Itself

In a time of great turmoil in the country, western expansion was as crucial to the American people as their position on slavery issues. When new states were joining into the country, such as Kansas and Nebraska, it was critical to determine where these territories would land on the most divisive platform in the union at the time. Senator Stephen A. Douglas of Illinois would suggest a method of finding an agreeable compromise between the northern and southern states regarding new additions and their positions on slavery: The Kansas-Nebraska Act.

Olathe would be one of the cities most heavily targeted by this act, as it would make the state's position subject to a popular vote. Abolitionists and pro-slavery residents would clash often and violently to persuade or dissuade those on the fence, especially in border cities like Olathe, against Missouri's southern leanings. Ultimately, when the Civil War would begin, growing cities like Olathe and surrounding towns would continue to be targeted during the Bleeding Kansas conflict.

Olathe Against the Southern States

Olathe would be one of the areas that would directly tie to the Bleeding Kansas era surrounding the Civil War years. Because it joined the union as a free state, immediate conflict and tensions existed at Missouri's borders. Olathe was among the first areas where any bands of Confederates would attack when across the border. For a time, it served as a military outpost for one company and the available local militia.

Even though Olathe would decommission the military outpost within four years of its creation, three separate violent attacks would occur here and nearby Lawrence. While this is one of the most infamous and sordid points in the city's history, modern Olathe remembers their stand and position on slavery and the Civil War and continues to honor this involvement with annual festivals, fairs, and re-enactments of the period.

Historical Structures of Olathe

The City of Olathe manages multiple properties registered and accepted among the national register of historical sites. One such structure is the Mahaffie House, which was originally a resupply point for wagons passing through the area. With the city being one of the stops along the Oregon trail, many travelers had to seek haven and purchase dwindling food and other vital resources on their ways to make a new life in the wild and unkept west.

Ensor Farm area is another historic property that you should take the time to see, even if you have lived here in Johnson County your entire life. Among the most noteworthy aspects of this property (and its radio tower behind the house) is the desire to educate students through radio transmissions by the late Marshall Ensor. These free courses helped many learn about morse code and the technical aspects of obtaining a Federal Radio License.

The Diversity of the City in the 20th Century

A little more than a decade ago, Olathe was considered among the top 25 growing cities in the country. Despite it being one of the top five largest municipalities in Kansas, its inclusion with the Kansas City metropolitan area helps make the area attractive to prospective homebuyers that want to avoid costlier properties and utilities closer to the largest metropolis in Missouri. With more than 140,000 residents, every decade has marked a steady increase in the growth of residents, retail, and commercial enterprise. 

Despite much of Kansas being rural farmland that helps to supply the necessary produce and grain to feed the country, cities like Olathe are arenas to showcase the diversity of the state and its residents. As such, we have a broad cultural influence in municipalities like Olathe, focusing on promoting the arts, sciences, and social acceptance for all. The city works to embody its name 'beautiful' derived from the indigenous Shawnee people in more than appearances.

How Fast Water Restoration for Your Olathe Home Makes a Difference

As leading water restoration professionals for the Olathe and Lenexa areas, we can appreciate the value of a fast response when disasters strike. Water can spread quickly through a home or business, impacting both the structure and its contents simultaneously. Relying on competent and experienced restoration professionals like our SERVPRO team can ensure that the right measures get taken to protect as much of the property as possible immediately.

Water restoration in Olathe involves multiple phases beginning with controlled demolition and extraction. With a general contracting license, we can implement many emergency services such as repairs and preventative demolition when we first arrive. These professionals can also relocate and pack-out contents to our nearby facility for items that require more direct and thorough drying and cleaning attention.

Thorough drying of your home is a process that also must get started as soon as possible. Because We're Faster To Any Size Disaster, we are prepared to reach damaged homes quickly in a crisis. Establishing drying zones and deploying industry-leading tools, equipment, and technology ensures that less building materials like drywall, carpeting, hardwood flooring, cabinets, and subflooring become irreparably damaged before drying can complete.

As challenging as water disasters might initially appear, you can count on the fast response and experience of our SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa team to help. We are available 24/7 by calling (913) 782-4693.

How Does SERVPRO Ensure Air Mover Safety During Water Damage Mitigation?

10/24/2020 (Permalink)

We have state of the art equipment necessary to dry the water damage in your home. Call us right away to prevent further damage.

Olathe Homeowners Looking For Safe Effective Water Damage Mitigation.

It is all too easy for water to spill in an Olathe home. All it takes is a broken pipe or a leaky appliance. When a disaster happens, homeowners need mitigation services they can rely on. Thankfully, SERVPRO trains our staff to handle any size disaster, and we are available 24 hours a day.

The key to water damage mitigation in Olathe is efficient drying, once we have pumped out the water. Every water remediation project starts with using extractors and pumps to draw out as much water as possible. After that, we turn our attention to drying.

What is an air mover, and why is it important?

As soaked materials dry, the air above them becomes saturated with moisture. This layer of wet, cold air slows down the drying process. Air moving equipment aids drying by keeping the air in motion. Our technicians use air movers alongside dehumidifiers. The air movers push the warmer, drier air from the dehumidifiers across whichever surface needs drying.

 We use air movers to:

• Dry the surface of carpets and hardwood floors
• Dry around wet furniture and textiles
• Move air out of the room and into another room

How does SERVPRO ensure air mover safety?

Safety is an essential part of any water mitigation operation. We ensure air mover safety by:

• Only using units equipped with safety screens over the inlets and outlets
• Only using units with thermally protected motors, so they cannot overheat
• Air washing the units regularly so they cannot blow out excess dust during the restoration

Some air mover units are designed for “daisy-chaining.” This means powering one unit from another so that we only need to plug one unit into the mains. We use the plugged-in unit to power the others. Our staff knows the limits and best practices for “daisy-chaining”, so we can do it safely.

Are there different kinds of air mover?

Yes, our teams use two main kinds of air mover.

A centrifugal air mover uses an impeller to create centrifugal force. They are the best choice when we want to direct air to a specific point, such as drying out a damp corner. An axial air mover moves larger volumes of air and is suitable for drying out more extensive areas.

If you are worried about water damage mitigation, give SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley a call at (913) 782-4693.

What Causes Burst Pipes? What Can I Do to Prevent It?

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Burst pipes are a common occurrence in the Kansas City metro as the colder months set in. Many residents and workers are in buildings where the pipes are potentially older than their grandparents! It sounds like a car backfiring, this loud pop sound when these water pipes burst. The result is major flooding in the home and structural damage problems for homeowners. SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa has compiled a list of the four main reasons why burst pipes occur:

1. Frozen Pipes
2. Moving Pipes
3. Water Pressure
4. Corrosion

Frozen Pipes

In the Winter months, serious issues arise for the water supply pipes in the home. Cold temperatures generally cause contraction to occur. Ice has more volume than water, so when water freezes inside a pipe it expands and increases pressure inside the pipe. The pressure builds and needing to escape it’s forced to burst out of the pipe. The burst will occur at the weakest point in the pipe, with pressure bursting right out of the side of the pipe wall.

To prevent frozen pipes, make sure that your home never goes below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Open your cabinet doors below the sink to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes as well.

Moving Pipes

Pipes can actually move around within the walls if they’re not properly secured AND the water is suddenly turned on or off. One way to know for sure is if you can hear your water pipes making noise inside the walls or floors. If your pipes sound like they’re clanging against each other, it’s called a water hammer. What you’re hearing is that the pipes are moving back and forth due to not being held into place properly. Gradually, these pipes become weakened in the joints until one pipe fails and pressurized water has a crevice to escape from. This causes the water pipe to break and flood an entire floor within a few moments!

Water Pressure

Water pressure must be kept at a normal setting in order for your water supply pipes to function properly. Any noticeable increase in the water pressure can translate to a burst pipe. It can also lead to a sink, toilet, or tub. As pressure increases, the pipes will cave in and separate, causing a rupture. Think your water pressure is getting too high? Here’s what to do!

1. Monitor it by attaching a pressure gauge to a sink spout and turning on the faucet. The pressure will move the needle on the gauge and display the water pressure in psi (pounds per square inch). 

• The water pressure in most homes is between 30-50 psi to avoid damage to pipes and plumbing fixtures.

1. If your home’s water pressure is too high, a SERVPRO technician can install a pressure reducing valve to bring it down to safer levels.

Corrosion

Pipes are meant to last a long time and provide decades worth of reliable service, but they aren’t able to last indefinitely. Over time, buildings experience corrosion which can mean that pipes will show signs of failure or decay. Corrosion is caused by an imbalance of pH in the water. At first, this seems to be a minor issue, but it takes its tolls on the pipes over the years. 

Many water supply pipes are made of galvanized iron, the minerals inside the water slowly wear down the galvanized coating and expose the iron pipe beneath. In time, the iron turns to rust and gradually clogs the interior of the pipe which prevents water from getting through. As a result, your pipe may burst or the water flow may be stopped entirely.

What Should I Do Now?

If you experience a burst pipe, the first step is to turn off the Water Main. Then, be sure to call a professional from SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa to remediate the water damage and to determine the cause of the burst pipe. Why is it important? Early detection and annual checkups can help prevent this issue from happening again in the future. Our team of experienced water remediation technicians is able to assist in giving tips for preventing water damage in addition to offering cleanup services.

If this happens to your building, don’t worry. Our team will be on-site as soon as possible to start removing water and determining the source of damage to prevent future disasters. We know that burst pipes are unexpected and downright terrifying, but leave it to us to get it fixed promptly. We’re able to remove water quickly so you won’t have to replace everything and you can go back to your daily routine as soon as possible.

Trust the #1 Name in Water Restoration for Kansas City and call SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa at (913)782-7693

What Happens if Some of the Water from a Leak or Spill Is Not Removed from My Lenexa Property?

10/11/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO Experts Follow the Water -- Complete Removal from Lenexa Homes Delivers the Best Outcomes

Life is busy, and disruptions to your routine are hard to manage, but when water invades your Lenexa home for whatever reason, you need to take action. Water is an incredibly destructive force to building materials and the contents of your home. It also can be silent in its "invasion," seemingly draining away and improperly considered no longer a problem.

When the Water Disappears, Can I Stop Worrying About Harm to My Home?

The importance of completing water removal in your Lenexa home cannot be overstated. Ignoring the question, "where did the water go?" sets you up for a broad range of significant problems that far outweigh the expense and temporary inconvenience of dealing with the initial water issues promptly and comprehensively. Our crews pursue rigorous training through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), an international restoration industry standard-setting organization. A critical focus during the training involves learning a range of strategies to follow the pathways water takes deep into your home's structural components.

Can I Let Nature Take Its Course and Wait for the Wet Materials to Dry on Their Own?

Some spaces in buildings, including your home, seem to bounce back from a water emergency in Lenexa well, but it is still smart to have the SERVPRO team take a look to ensure all the water spilling and spreading is appropriately managed and removed. For example, a kitchen or bathroom often has a theoretically waterproof floor, typically constructed of ceramic tile or other resilient floor covering. The tile and sealed grout is intended to contain water in a space where it is expected to splash and puddle because of the room's function. Unfortunately, all it takes is an eroding sealer or cracks in the grout to start and build a water damage problem. Over time and certainly after a substantial water intrusion like a water heater or a supply line rupture, the small imperfections can result in:

• Saturation of the subfloor
• Weakening of floor joists
• Further breaks in the grout as the underlying materials swell and distort, causing the tiles to dislodge
• Dripping onto building materials below the affected room -- ceilings and walls show bulging and staining, and can risk collapse
• Mold growth and damage

How Do Professionals Follow the Migration of Water?

The ceramic tile example above is just one of many we see when responding to water loss concerns. You might think you are ahead of and "mopped up" the problem. Then the hardwood floor under the leaky radiator or the open window where the rain blew in begins to distort, "cupping" from the continuous wicking of moisture from the wet plywood beneath. The dishwasher leak seems resolved, but then a musty odor will not relent because of mold growing under nearby cabinets holding water behind their toe kicks. A slow leak in a pipe enclosed by walls eventually destroys the insulation inside and dissolves the gypsum board from the backing out. These situations are just the iceberg's tip, so how do we discover the water causing this destruction?

• Infrared Imaging

Our crews have technicians skilled in interpreting the temperature fluctuations shown by infrared cameras. These professionals can pinpoint hidden caches of water and areas heavily saturated with water without tearing out walls or floors first.

• Moisture Detectors

Sensitive tools use probes to locate moisture in building materials. Our technicians test many areas to draw a map of the water intrusion. This thorough detection is crucial as we use techniques to mitigate or halt continuing migration. It also focuses our workers on the areas that need water removal and structural drying.

• Moisture Meters

Moisture meters determine the levels of absorbed water in various structural components. We also test unaffected structures in your home to provide a "goal" to achieve, because nearly all structural materials have a normal moisture content level.  The readings offer data needed when we complete the removal of liquid water and move into the drying phase. We want the materials dried to the appropriate level when balancing the data to avoid secondary damage like mold, but not overdried, which causes other damage.

The trained, experienced, and well-equipped crews from SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley are expert water migration detectives, relentless in removing water and lingering moisture wherever it hides. Get your home back to "Like it never even happened." Call (913) 782-4693 24/7/365.

Are There Any Health Hazards During Water Mitigation in Olathe?

7/19/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage is not something that most people can handle alone. Contact SERVPRO and get professional help in dealing with water damage in your home.

Olathe Homeowners Must Be Aware Of The Risks Of Water Mitigation

Water damage is a homeowner’s nightmare. People living in the Olathe area are keen to protect their homes and make sure that even in the event of a flood or a burst pipe, they can get back to life as usual before too long.

SERVPRO understands that Olathe homeowners might be keen to carry out water mitigation after a flood. It is only natural to want to restore your damaged home quickly. Homeowners often try to mop up the water, wring out drapes, trash water-logged items, and move precious keepsakes out of harm’s way, after a flood. However, we recommend waiting for the professionals to arrive – water cleanup comes with several health risks that you might not be aware of.

What are some of the health risks of water mitigation?

There are many health risks associated with water removal procedures, including:

• There is a risk of contact with contaminated water. Depending on the source of the pool, there is a chance that it is contaminated with chemicals or human waste. The thought of such dangerous water is very unpleasant, and homeowners need to be fully aware of this risk.
• Overhead light fixtures, appliances, and smaller lamps, all pose an electric shock risk if there is water present. You cannot always see whether water has seeped into wiring or not – but your teams know how to check. SERVPRO teams always ensure there is no active power to fittings before touching them, to eliminate the risk of electric shocks.
• Slip, trip, and fall hazards are very common in water-damaged homes. Wet surfaces are usually slippery, and when you combine slippery surfaces with the possibility of poor lighting and scattered debris, the chances of a trip or fall rise significantly.

There may be other structural hazards in place, such as from hanging or damaged drywall, wet carpets, or damaged wood.

SERVPRO wants local homeowners to understand that there are many health hazards associated with water mitigation in their Olathe homes. That’s why it’s better to call in the professionals who have training in assessing and handling such risks.

Why should I wait till SERVPRO arrives?

If you try to carry out water mitigation by yourself, the risks are twofold.

First, you do not have the necessary training to assess and handle the health hazards associated with water cleanup. That means you are putting yourself at risk if you try to proceed alone.

Second, you do not have professional equipment such as air movers, dehumidifiers, and water extractors. Attempting mitigation without the right equipment increases the chances of an incomplete job and more problems in the future due to overlooked damages.

What does SERVPRO do to lessen the health risks?

SERVPRO ensures each of our technicians receives thorough training in how to assess and reduce risks during the water mitigation process. For example:

• We begin every site visit with a thorough assessment of the situation. We take into account the damage to your home and all potential risks and draw up a clear plan for restoration and mitigation.
• We equip all our technicians with appropriate personal protective equipment, including masks, breathing apparatus, gloves, and coveralls, to keep them safe from potential contamination.
• We train our technicians in the safest way to move through small and enclosed spaces, water damaged rooms, and structures with missing rooves or broken windows.
• If necessary, we construct containment areas to ensure the safety of both our team and your loved ones.

Our teams also carry out thorough extraction and drying to leave your home dry and safe once more, and reduce the risk of mold growth.

SERVPRO teams also deodorize your home, and clean and sanitize water-damaged items, to leave it smelling fresh.

Is there anything else I can do to hasten the restoration process?

We understand that you want to get back to your home as soon as possible. 

The best way to get your home restored quickly is to call us as soon as possible after water damage. The sooner you call us, the sooner we can come to your aid.

We know it can be tempting to try and help, but please stay clear of our teams while they work – we are there to keep you safe.

In some cases, you might need to move out for a while so we can restore your home and make it safe once more. In cases such as these, our pack-out and move-out services help keep your belongings safe and in good order while we sanitize and restore them.

Water mitigation can be dangerous and is a job for professionals. Don’t try to handle mitigation yourself – call SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley at (913) 782-4693.

Your Best Guide to Water Damage Remediation in Kansas City

3/15/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen Water Removal in Kansas City Gets Fast Action

The speed at which water damage gets cleaned up makes a big difference in the amount of loss a homeowner experiences. When a bathtub overflows, toilet backs up, or appliance malfunctions, all of these situations require expedited extraction and drying. 

Kitchens are one of the most common areas of water removal needs in Kansas City residences. The floors often bear the brunt of the loss as tile flooring is typical, and water seeps quickly between the tiles and causes moisture buildup in the subfloor. 

Common Issues of Longterm Water Loss

Two of the most frequently seen reasons for significant damage from water narrows into two categories. The first is inadequate initial cleanup efforts, and the second is too much time between the event and the restoration process. Before they even get out their moisture detection equipment, SERVPRO technicians know to look for: 

• Delamination of tile
• Foul odors
• Signs of mold infestation
• Softened or buckled sheetrock
• Warped floorboards 
• Water spots on walls and ceilings

Equipment for Thorough Extraction

The way the water removal process gets handled has a bearing on the rest of the restoration services. The more moisture that gets picked up lessens the time needed to dry the structure. The less water that remains within the floor and subfloor increases the potential of saving the homeowner the cost of replacement. The techs commonly do several dry passes to ensure the maximum amount of moisture gets removed before moving on to the drying phase. SERVPRO techs have access to a vast array of specialized extraction equipment such as: 

• Portable pumps
• Submersible pumps for water more than 2-inches in depth
• Truck-mounted units for debris-filled and large amounts of water
• Ride-on units for use on carpets and area rugs 
• Weighted extractor heads to push water out of carpet and padding
• Squeegees to push water along tile flooring
• Wands to extend the reach within wall cavities and small spaces

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa at (913) 782-4693 has the advanced equipment for water removal of any scale in local properties. The experienced techs are available 24/7 to restore properties to their preloss condition "Like it never even happened."

Click here for more information about Kansas City.

Oh Oh! Olathe Water Damage Woes? No Need to Despair--Call SERVPRO

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Advanced Equipment Like Air Movers and Drying Mats to Preserve Hardwood Flooring and Cabinets in an Olathe Kitchen

Urgency Drives Professional Water Removal Efforts in Olathe

• Water loss in your Olathe home requires a rapid response to avoid further structural destruction and secondary damage. “Rapid” to our well-trained and experienced water restoration crews means we arrive and initiate emergency services within a few hours of your first call. Commitment to swift intervention is critical, permitting us to deliver on our pledge to save time and expense by restoring existing structures.
  
  Efficient Water Removal Relies on Professional-Grade Equipment
  
  Every moment counts as we craft a plan for water removal in Olathe. Most conventional building materials and fixtures are porous, absorbing fluids quickly, leading to swelling, crumbling, and weakening the longer the water infiltrates. Swift pumping and extracting of water is critical to halt the process. Our high-capacity pumps and extractors are the first line of defense when mitigating water damage. The more liquid we can pump or suction, the faster the subsequent drying process.
  
  Training and Experience Make All the Difference
  
  A common task for our crew after a water loss is suctioning water from carpeting. Often we try to accomplish this “in place,”  extracting the water from both the carpet and pad. Weighted wands make the passes across the fabric more efficient. Although quick and thorough extraction is always the goal, SERVPRO crews learn to manage the aggressive approach needed to pull the maximum amount of water from the pad and carpet. Soaked fibers are 50 percent weaker than dry, and an inexperienced worker unaware of this vulnerability can unintentionally cause the carpet’s fibers to delaminate from the backing. Stretching and ripping are also potential risks. Our crews balance the need for speed with the caution required to preserve the integrity of the materials.
  
  Swift Structural Drying
  
  Water removal is incomplete unless structural drying is the final step. The primary tools used for drying are air movers and dehumidifiers. Placement of this equipment is calculated using scientific principles mastered by SERVPRO employees during the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) coursework. Drying basics include:
  
      
• Positioning a sufficient number of air movers to ensure airflow directs over-all wet surfaces
• Adjusting temperatures to maximize evaporation (warmer air accepts more moisture than cooler)
• Creating and maintaining a balance between water vapor released by warm air movement and the capture of that vapor by dehumidifiers
  
  Prompt water removal for our valued customers is a priority for SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa. Call us at (913) 782-4693 to schedule a timely assessment and expert follow-through.

Boost Your Water Damage Remediation Success in Olathe With These Tips

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can affect many areas in your home. Contact SERVPRO to assess the intrusion and remediate the damage.

Vaporizing Water to Remove Moisture from Olathe Homes

As one of the preferred vendors for restoration services throughout the Olathe area, we have advanced tools and experienced personnel to help with even extensive water loss incidents. We care about the communities that we serve and work to help those sharing our neighborhoods with more than disaster recovery. We are involved in many charitable events throughout the year and work closely with organizations like Big Brother, Big Sister, to help our local youth.

When you are contending with a disaster in your home, though, you can also have the experience and premier equipment available to our SERVPRO team for water removal in Olathe properties. We understand the science of adequately drying out a residence, ensuring that every step that gets taken throughout mitigation and restoration can maximize the efficiency of our drying tools and water removal equipment. One area where this is especially important is temperature management.

Warmer temperatures are ideal in almost every way for water removal efforts. Because much of our drying process hinges on the results of air movers, we strive to displace surface water on items and create water vapor. Warmer air is capable of holding more of this moisture than cooler air, making warmer temperatures ideal for more efficient air mover production during the drying process.

Vaporizing surface moisture is only part of the drying equation, though. Our refrigerant dehumidifiers can help to regulate the growing ambient moisture content in the environment by reducing humidity. The steps from liquid to gas and then back to captured, condensed liquid is the essence of the drying process. Finding the proper balance between the placement and number of both air movers and dehumidifiers can help to ensure that the entire drying treatment is as fast as possible and the safest for the exposed construction materials so they can be salvaged.

We strive to provide every customer with the immediate attention that their house needs after a water loss incident, and that begins with our commitment to availability 24/7. We have become a trusted restoration name because of our dependability when every second counts. Give our SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa team a call today at (913) 782-4693.

Click here for more information about Olathe.

How Our Experts Manage The Water Removal Process In Lenexa

12/21/2019 (Permalink)

Managing the Water Removal Process in Lenexa to Save Property

A lazy day in the house can turn into a hectic rush to save valuables from exposure to water if there is a leak from pipes or appliances such as washing machines. Restoration of water spills requires urgency because some of the severe damages happen after contents and materials are exposed to water over extended periods.  Calling a professional water removal service like SERVPRO immediately after noticing the loss can help.

The water removal process in Lenexa may require more effort in some areas of the building because of concentration by gravity action or the materials in the area. Typically, water collects in rooms on the ground floor or other areas with lower elevation, such as the garage. Rooms with carpeted floors also collect more water because the carpet and pad are porous. Our SERVPRO crews scope the house after arriving at the site to establish the affected areas and the tools suitable for the job. For example, on a carpeted surface, scoping helps establish whether to use weighted tools for the extraction or to remove the carpet and extract normally.

Depending on the source and duration of the spill, an incident can leave a considerable volume of standing water in your property, especially if it is not elevated enough for some of the water to flow out naturally through gravity. Choosing a pump with the right lift and volume capacity helps ensure the process runs smoothly. Our SERVPRO crews have access to different types of extraction equipment, including truck-mounted ones and portable ones. We also have high-speed pumps that can move large volumes of water within a short period.

After extracting all the standing water, there is a need to dry excess moisture from contents and materials affected by the water. Evaporation is the primary technique for removing moisture. Setting up different air mover units around the property helps our SERVPRO technicians increase the evaporation rate in the house. We also have dehumidifiers to extract the evaporated moisture from the air.

Water removal can help restore the preloss state in a property if well managed. Call SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa at (913) 782-4693 to send a team that can deal with every aspect of the loss, “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Lenexa click here.

When to Avoid Using Drain Cleaner

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

Avoid Using A Cleaning Product In The Following Situations

If you’re dealing with a clogged drain in your Lenexa, KS, home, you may turn to drain cleaner as a quick and easy fix. However, this product may end up causing more harm than good. It’s best to avoid pouring chemicals down your drain and contact a professional to solve the problem instead. Be sure to avoid using a cleaning product in the following situations.

1. Old Pipes

If you have older pipes, it’s generally not a good idea to use a cleaning product. Older pipes likely have more wear and tear and may have a difficult time handling the chemicals you pour down your drain. In most cases, using drain cleaning products can damage your pipes and force you to pay for costly repairs or replacements. Try to use a plunger or auger to fix the clog if you have old pipes.

2. Metal Pipes

Metal pipes might also struggle to digest the chemicals in a drain cleaner. If you use a cleaning product to repair your clogged drain, make sure that your pipes aren’t made of metal. These pipes tend to be weaker and are more vulnerable to damage. Metal may also become warped as a result of the heat produced by chemical cleaners, and the same can happen with plastic pipes. Check the material of your pipes before you attempt to use a cleaning product.

3. Severe Clogs

The more serious a clog is, the more difficult it will be for your cleaner to fix it. When the product fails to clear a clog, the chemicals remain trapped in your pipes and can lead to more damage. If you’re dealing with a drain that is completely blocked, it’s best to try unclogging it mechanically or calling a professional for a sewage cleaning if you can’t do it on your own.
A clogged drain can cause water damage as well as serious plumbing issues. Don’t wait to call water damage repair experts to have your home restored immediately.

3 Ways to Avoid Water Damage

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

Following These Guidelines May Help Reduce Your Risk of Flooding

Sometimes water damage is inevitable, but there are some precautions you can take to possibly avoid getting water in home in Lenexa, KS. While there is no guaranteed way to stop it from happening, following these guidelines may help reduce your risk of flooding.

1. Maintain Your Bathroom

Attending to your bathroom regularly may help you notice any excessive water that was not there before. You should also check for a broken pipe and look to see if any of them have corrosion as this may be a sign of a problem. If your water bill is unusually high, you might want to have a professional come take a look to see if you need a pipe cleanup.

2. Get Your HVAC System Checked Regularly

HVAC systems can cause moisture problems in your home. This is why it is a good idea to have someone come look at it at at least once a year. Having someone come out and do regular maintenance on your system may help prevent you from having to deal water damage or mold remediation later on.

3. Watch Your Appliances

Appliances that require water typically have a supply line. This hose can crack or break and cause a buildup of liquid around it. You should inspect all of these on a regular basis and have someone do regular maintenance on them. Usually, your insurance company is more likely to help cover the cost of cleanup if you have water in home if you take care of the flooding right away.

If you do end up with water in home, it is a good idea to have a water damage expert in Lenexa, KS, come assess the situation. Always take special care when it comes to any electrical appliances near the flooded area. Never let the problem go untreated as it may lead to mold growth and other issues. The sooner you get it taken care of the better off you will be.

3 Facts About Category One Water Damage

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

Restoration professionals categorize water damage based on the liquid’s contamination levels.

Restoration professionals categorize water damage based on the liquid’s contamination levels. Category One damage involves clean water from a broken supply line. Category Two water may contain chemicals or microbes and Category Three water is highly contaminated and may contain solid waste. Here are three facts for property owners or managers dealing with water damage at a building in Olathe, KS.

1. Category One Water Is Clean

Water in supply lines is typically clean and treated. This water should not contain any dangerous chemicals, microbes or solid waste. Standing water can be pumped out or extracted with a mop or wet vac.

2. Category One Water Requires Drying

As long as a building owner or manager acts quickly, damage caused by clean water can simply be dried. There is no need for disinfection as long as standing water is extracted and the removal process begins within 24 to 48 hours. Rather than risking worsening conditions or secondary damage, an owner or manager should hire mitigation and restoration professionals to extract water and promote drying.

3. Category One Water Can Degrade

After 48 hours, standing Category One water may degrade into Category Two gray water due to exposure to building materials, contents and systems. If water is left standing for days, bacteria will multiply, and mold may begin to grow. Category One water can eventually degrade into Category Three black water. Areas exposed to Category Two or Category Three water should be disinfected prior to drying.

A property owner or manager should quickly remove clean water introduced into a structure by a broken pipe. There is no need for disinfection as long as a leak is stopped, standing water is extracted and the area starts to dry within 24 to 48 hours. Even though Category One water is clean, it can still cause major damage to a building in Olathe, KS.

Flooding, Secondary Damage, and Your Home

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

Remove water and dry your home as quickly as possible.

Flooding, Secondary Damage, And Your Home

Whether fire, flooding, or other disasters have affected your home, there's a potential for black mold growth and types of secondary damage. It's imperative that you take the right steps to protect your Olathe, KS home, minimize damage, and reduce the risk of further trouble. These secondary issues could take many forms.

• Structural damage
• Mold growth
• Wood rot
• Corrosion
• Electrical damage
  

Get the Home Dry

The best way to avoid ongoing damage, including the growth of black mold, is to respond immediately. In your flooded home, evaporation quickly leads to high humidity levels. The air becomes saturated and furnishings or possessions that had been above the level of the water become affected. When this happens, your home and furnishings will continue to be impacted long after the water level has been brought down.

Reduce Humidity Levels

As flood waters evaporate, the heavy, water-logged air touches surfaces throughout the home. When moist air makes contact with walls, ceilings, and tables, condensation takes place. The newly formed water droplets soak into wood, drywall, fabrics, and other materials. Even when you respond immediately to flooding, removing water as quickly as possible, any porous materials in your home could have absorbed water.

Rent Equipment

The appropriate equipment is required to reduce the risk of these damages. In addition to opening doors and windows for ventilation, contact flood damage restoration professionals to rent dehumidifiers and large fans. The faster you can get your home and possessions dry, the less opportunity there is for further damage to occur. The goal of proper ventilation and high-speed fans is to replace humid air with dry air as often as possible.

Hire Professionals

Flood damage restoration companies generally have access to cleansers and equipment that can improve the chances of avoiding secondary damage. The need to thoroughly dry your home out as quickly as possible is often enough to convince homeowners that hiring professionals is the best move.

If you're concerned about long-lasting damages, such as black mold, don't hesitate to act. Remove water and dry your Olathe, KS home as quickly as possible.

4 Ways To Know You Have a Bathroom Leak

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

Air mover after a water leak in a bathroom in Edgerton, KS

4 Ways To Know You Have a Bathroom Leak

Water can cause a tremendous amount of damage to any unsuspecting home because it can be hidden under tubs and showers in any bathroom in your home in Edgerton, KS. How can you know if you have a bathtub leak? Here are four signs that water has probably damaged your home due to a bathroom drip.

1. Ceiling Sogginess

Brown water stains or bulging spots in the ceiling of a two-story home often indicate a water leak in the floor above. Frequently, it is from a crack in a shower or tub surround. Water can penetrate the crack and pool on the lower ceiling. Once absorbed, it can become noticeable.

2. Floor Discoloration

Wooden trims and painted baseboards in a bathroom that suddenly warp or become discolored send out a red flag that they are absorbing water from somewhere nearby. Since the water source is probably hidden, check for cracks causing a bathtub leak or missing caulking around shower walls.


3. Crawlspace Stalactites

Most people seldom enter the crawlspace under their home. If you do and you notice a stalactite hanging from black wood, you can be assured there has been a water leak for a long time. This type of leak is often hidden under a shower pan or between tiles, causing a shower pan leak.

4. Pan Crack

If your shower pan sags, is old or has a crack, it is probably leaking into the flooring beneath it. Upon close inspection, the pan may appear to have held its integrity, but a leak as small as one-eighth of an inch long can allow water to freely drip into the lower flooring, which can eventually rot the boards.

Most bathroom cracks are small enough that they can be easily missed. If caught early, you can save a great deal of money on home repairs. That is why it is important to check for a bathtub leak and call a water repair specialty team at the first sign of trouble. You can keep unwanted water from damaging your home.

3 Top Reasons for a Leaky Toilet

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

3 Top Reasons for a Leaky Toilet

Every time you flush, you feel irritated by the leaking toilet at your home in Olathe, KS. A bathroom leak like this, however, can amount to more than a simple annoyance. Water easily finds its way through walls and floors wreaking havoc along the way. In order to prevent secondary water damage, don’t ignore the problem. Here are three top reasons why your lavatory is soaked and what to do next:

1. Loose Connection

Best case scenario, one of the connections to the toilet is loose. Before taking more extreme action carefully tighten the water supply hose and all bolts. Flush the toilet to check if the leak is gone.

2. Wax Ring

If water pools at the base of the leaking toilet or a foul smell emerges when you flush, a failing wax ring is likely at fault. The main purpose of the wax gasket is to form an airtight seal between the base of the toilet and the flange beneath. This prevents water, waste and sewer gasses from seeping through. The solution is to thoroughly scrape off the old wax and replace the seal.

3. Tank Flange

The flange is screwed tightly to the floor underneath the wax ring and connects the drainpipe to the toilet. Over time, it may crack or chip causing the wax seal to break. Depending on the type of flange you have, the age of the equipment and how tightly it is attached to the floor, you may need professional help to replace it. 

Hopefully, you solve the mystery of the leaking toilet at your home in Olathe, KS, before further water damage occurs. Signs of secondary damage include soft spots on the walls or floor, evidence of mold growth or water dripping through to the ceiling below. In this case, a water restoration specialist helps mitigate the damage that your annoying bathroom leak has caused.

3 Tips for Dealing With Damage from Water

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Air movers on a water damage in a Olathe,KS home

When an issue arises in your home, your first reaction is probably to spring into task mode. You want to fix the problem as soon as possible. If your home in Olathe, KS, has water damage, however, most of the repairs need to be handled by professional remediation technicians. There are three main things you can do to prepare for their arrival.

1. Focus on Safety

Your primary concern when your home has flooded from broken pipes or an intense storm should be the safety of you and your family. Do not use any electrical appliances that came into contact with floodwater. Turn off the water and the electricity to the area. Do not wade through standing water, particularly if you can't see the floor. If you have any doubt whether staying in the house is safe, go ahead and vacate the premises.

2. Document the Damage

Your insurance package may cover part of the expense of water cleanup. To increase your chances of getting the money you need to take care of your costs, you need to document the water damage your home and belongings have suffered. Make a list of damaged items, and take pictures and video of the issues if possible.

3. Remove Items

You may be able to start the first step of the cleanup process. If it is safe to do so, remove waterlogged items from the flooded area. The more you can move out, the less the experts must deal with when they arrive. If you want to save your carpet, it is advisable to remove any brightly colored rugs, books or other items from the carpet so that the colors don't bleed onto it.

How you handle water damage in your home plays a big role in limiting secondary damage. By knowing what is helpful and what is not, you can speed up the remediation process.

Can Valuable Items Be Saved After Water Damage?

8/15/2018 (Permalink)

Your home is full of memories, heirlooms and belongings. When you discover water in home in Olathe, KS you're not only worried about the home itself. Your mind may also start to wonder if the residential cleanup crew can help you save your valuable belongings.

Unfortunately, the professionals may not be able to give you an easy yes or no answer. Often, whether an item can be saved depends on the amount of water damage, the material type and many other factors. Some belongings can be saved by following certain steps.

1. Cleaning: Most water that fills a home has some level of dirt and debris in it. Even floods from a broken pipe can introduce dirt and silt to the environment of your house. The items need to be cleaned with fresh water to ensure the debris is not embedded into the object.
2. Drying: Once the initial cleaning has been done, the valuable has to be dried out. Depending on the material, you can hang dry items or use a dryer. Because the machine can cause rapid heating, it may be best to line dry most items. If the belonging is particularly fragile, you may need to use dry cleaning to remove dirt.
3. Repairing: Some items may be damaged when there is water in home. The damage can be done during the flooding or the cleaning process. Your valuables may need to be repaired before they can officially be saved. Each piece of the item should be dried and cleaned prior to the repair job.

If you want any of your valuables to be salvaged after you found water in home, you need to turn to the help of a professional as soon as possible. Wet items can have increased fragility, which can cause more damage when you try to handle the item. An expert will have the tools and equipment needed to carefully clean, dry and repair damaged valuables. Visit http://www.SERVPROolathelenexa.com/ for more information on water damage. 

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

7/28/2018 (Permalink)

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.

• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
• Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

Seal Your Home Before the Rains Start

7/28/2018 (Permalink)

When the rain starts your home is supposed to keep yourself and your belongings dry. However, some moisture can get in if your home has not been maintained or checked for broken seals.

What to do if you are experiencing moisture in your home:

• Re-caulk windows seals
• Re-caulk door seals
• Consider adding overhangs to doors and windows
• Check for missing shingles on the roof
• Metal roofs are expensive but last longer than 30year shingles

Doing or considering adding fixtures to your home will keep the moisture out, and it may even add beauty and equity to your home.

At SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa, we take pride in our fast and effective response team, dedicated to getting you back up and running as soon as possible. Contact us at 913.782.4693 for rapid response and service!

How Sewer Damage is Cleaned Up

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

A sewer backup can wreak havoc in your home. A flooded toilet can unleash dangerous bacteria and viruses and cause irreparable damage to your home’s contents. While you may be tempted to begin cleaning right away or try to salvage personal items that have been contaminated, it’s important that you let a professional water damage mitigation specialist in Olathe, KS, handle a sewer cleanup.

If the contaminated water is in danger of coming into contact with electrical appliances, turn off your electricity to prevent hazardous conditions. After that, avoid all contact with the sewage and contact a professional. A backed up sewer flooding your home is considered an emergency situation, so they should respond quickly. When they arrive they’ll assess the situation and make a plan for cleanup. Once they begin, here are the steps you can expect.

1. Identifying the Source.

Before sewer cleanup can begin, it’s important to identify the source of the backup. A professional should be able to cap a ruptured sewer line or seal a cracked septic tank to prevent further backup into your home.

2. Water Extraction.

A water damage mitigation specialist will have specialized equipment to remove the water from your home, such as submersible pumps and wet vacs. They’ll also make sure contaminants are not spread to other parts of your property by sealing off the affected areas.

3. Removal of Contaminated Materials.

Any porous materials that come in contact with sewage will have to be thrown out. This includes carpeting, drywall and upholstery cloth. If the contaminated object is very valuable, it may be worth the expense to have it specially cleaned by an expert.

4. Disinfecting Your Home.

Any remaining hard materials, such as glass, metal and hardwoods will need to be disinfected. This requires specialized cleansers used to wipe down every remaining surface.

A sewer cleanup requires safety gear and expert know-how to avoid spreading contaminants and putting you and your family at risk. If you’re dealing with a backed up sewer, avoid all contact with the sewage and call a water mitigation specialist in Olathe, KS, right away.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROolathelenexa.com/.

Water Damaged Documents

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

We all have a lot of necessary documents. Home owners know that throughout our lives we amass many vital pieces of paper, from birth certificates to insurance policies. Many of us do not keep our personal effects as neatly as we would like too. Sometimes life is just too busy to worry about filing. However, in the event of flood damage, it is all too easy to lose valuable documents or, even worse, find the flood waters have ruined them.

SERVPRO recommends all home owners take steps right now to protect their papers from flood damage, because once a natural disaster hits, it is too late to take action. Plan now so you do not lose valuable information in the event of flooding.

The first step is keeping all your relevant documents together. Gather together all your records, certificates, policies and more, and put them all in one watertight lockable box. In the event of a natural disaster, you can grab the box in seconds.

It is also a good idea to make backups of everything. You might keep a set of photocopies in another box in a different location. Alternatively, you might scan all your necessary documents and keep the files on CD or a USB drive. Always keep your electronic copies separate from the originals. Some people use a bank safe deposit box for their originals or keep their electronic copies in the home of a trusted friend or relative (do be sure to use a password if you take this option.)

What should you keep in your document box? SERVPRO recommends keeping all your most vital information, including your birth certificate, marriage certificate, social security documents, medical documents, driver’s license, passport, home paperwork, insurance, tax records, stocks and bonds, and your will and retirement plan. It is also a good idea to keep treasured items that cannot be replaced, such as your favorite recipes, or children's' artwork or photographs.

Our IICRC-certified technicians are available to help with post-flood cleanup. We can freeze dry water-damaged papers for later restoration. We also extract water, dry your home, and deodorize after.

For help with flood cleanup in Olathe and surrounding areas call SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa (913)782.4693

Preventing Spring Shower Disasters in Olathe, KS

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

While we know April showers bring May flowers, it’s also apparent that April showers bring water damage to homes — which nobody wants. In an effort to make sure that this water doesn’t damage your home, it’s important to do what you can to prevent it. Below are a few ways you can prevent a spring shower disaster at home and avoid water damage.

Check Your Roofing!

One of the first things to do when you notice a ton of rain is to check the first place it hits --your roof! If you’ve got old or worn out shingles from the winter, they might be giving way to rain which can lead to water damage. Make sure to have this checked (and especially near your chimney) before anything to ensure no damage occurs.

Your Foundation Matters

An older house can sustain cracks in the foundation or sinking ground, which can also lead to pooling and damaging water. To prevent sustaining water damage from any of these, make sure you’re checking your home for signs such as puddles, leaks, moisture on the walls, windows and more.

Sealing Your Home

As rain pours onto your home, moisture can get into your home which can cause water damage and even mold growth. If you’re experiencing this in your own home, it might be a good idea to re-caulk windows and door seals before it becomes a costly issue. Unfortunately, water is usually unforgiving and shows no mercy once it’s entered your home.

There are sometimes emergency situations that cannot be avoided, even with proper care. If your home or business has experienced water damage this Spring, there’s only one company who can quickly and effectively restore the area. With SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa, we take pride in our fast and effective response team, dedicated to getting you back up and running as soon as possible. Contact us at 913.782.4693 for rapid response and service!

TIS THE SEASON FOR BROKEN WATER PIPES

12/8/2017 (Permalink)

This time of year, is the time of year to make sure you prepare your home and business for the cold weather ahead of all of us.  We see frozen water pipes break every year in both residential structures and commercial buildings. 

One of the most memorable losses occurred in a hotel that did not repair the heater in a stairwell and the sprinkler pipe broke on the 3^rd floor inside of the room adjacent to the stairwell.  The pipe ran for only a short period of time, but the damages were quite large.  The water affected 12 rooms and 3 hallways plus the stairwell. This loss could have been prevented if preventative maintenance would have been completed.  We see this every year in both residential and commercial buildings.  Below are some suggestions for protecting pipes, preventing breaks, and thawing pipes if they do freeze.

If your pipes do freeze and cause damage to your home or business, STAY CALM AND CALL SERVPRO SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa, we can make it “Like it never even happened.®”