How Water Damage Can Drive Up Your Utility Bills

10/16/2024 (Permalink)

If you suspect water damage or want to ensure your property is protected, reach out to SERVPRO of Schertz Central, Cibolo, Seguin, Gonzales.

Water damage isn’t just a hassle—it can seriously impact your home and finances. It’s important to be aware of the hidden costs that water damage can bring. Beyond the obvious repairs, water damage can unexpectedly drive up your utility bills. Let’s dive into how this happens and what you can do to keep your costs in check.

Increased Heating and Cooling Costs

One of the first ways water damage can hit your wallet is through higher heating and cooling bills. When water gets into your home, it can damage insulation, making it less effective. Good insulation keeps your home warm in winter and cool in summer, but when it’s damaged, your HVAC system has to work overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Why Insulation Matters for Energy Efficiency

Heating and cooling account for about 48% of the energy use in a typical U.S. home, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. If your insulation has been compromised by water damage, your home will lose heat faster in the winter and gain heat more easily in the summer, leading to higher energy bills. If you’ve had water damage, it’s crucial to check your insulation and replace it if needed.

Water Waste and Higher Water Bills

Water damage often leads to leaks, and these can go unnoticed for a while, causing water waste and higher water bills. Even a small, steady leak can add up over time, and in some cases, these leaks may be hidden behind walls or under floors.

Spotting Hidden Leaks

Hidden leaks are common after water damage, especially if the damage wasn’t addressed right away. The EPA reports that a leaky faucet dripping at one drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water a year. Just imagine what a hidden pipe leak could do! Regularly checking for signs of leaks, like damp spots on walls or ceilings, can help you catch problems early and avoid high water bills.

Mold Growth and Its Impact on Utility Costs

If water damage isn’t properly handled, it can lead to mold growth, which can affect your home’s energy efficiency. Mold thrives in damp areas and can spread quickly, damaging walls, ceilings, and insulation. As mold spreads, it can make your home less energy-efficient, leading to higher heating and cooling costs.

The Hidden Costs of Mold

Beyond the expense of mold removal, mold can reduce your home’s energy efficiency. Mold can break down insulation and create cold spots, making your heating system work harder. This inefficiency can drive up your energy bills and lead to more costly repairs if left unchecked.

Taking Action After Water Damage

Water damage can lead to higher utility bills, expensive repairs, and a lot of stress. In New Braunfels, TX, where heavy rains and humidity are common, it’s essential to be proactive in preventing and dealing with water damage. Regular inspections, quick repairs, and proper maintenance can help you avoid the hidden costs water damage can bring.

If you suspect water damage or want to ensure your property is protected, reach out to SERVPRO of Schertz Central, Cibolo, Seguin, Gonzales. Our team can assess the situation, provide expert restoration services, and help you prevent further damage, ultimately saving you money and ensuring your home stays safe and comfortable.

Protecting Your Pets from Water Damage-Related Hazards

6/13/2024 (Permalink)

As a responsible pet owner, you want to keep your furry friends safe from harm. One of the most overlooked hazards that can affect pets is water damage in your home. Whether it's caused by flooding, plumbing issues, or leaks, water damage,  here's how you can protect your pets from water damage and keep them safe.

1. Keep an Eye on Your Home

Regularly inspect your home for signs of water damage. Look for damp spots, peeling paint, or any unusual odors, especially in areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. Early detection can help prevent further damage and keep your pets safe from harmful mold and mildew growth.

2. Prevent Access to Affected Areas

If you discover water damage in your home, block off the affected areas to keep your pets away. Wet or damp areas can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold, which can be harmful to your pets if ingested or inhaled.

3. Dry Out Water-Damaged Areas

Promptly address any water damage in your home by drying out affected areas. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to increase airflow and reduce moisture. This can help prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can be harmful to your pets.

4. Be Cautious of Standing Water

Standing water can pose a significant risk to pets. It can contain harmful bacteria, chemicals, or sharp debris that may injure your pet. Keep your pets away from standing water, and work to drain or remove it as soon as possible.

5. Store Hazardous Materials Safely

Water damage can cause hazardous materials, such as cleaning supplies and chemicals, to become accessible to your pets. Store these materials in secure, elevated areas away from water-damaged spots to prevent accidental ingestion.

6. Maintain Your Plumbing System

Regularly inspect and maintain your plumbing system to prevent leaks and potential water damage. Fix any issues promptly to avoid future complications and protect your pets from hazards.

7. Plan for Emergencies

In the event of a severe flood or water-related emergency, have an evacuation plan in place for you and your pets. Know where your nearest pet-friendly shelter is, and have a kit with essentials such as food, water, and medications ready for your pets.

By taking proactive steps to prevent and address water damage in your home, you can help protect your pets from related hazards. Keeping your pets safe and healthy is an important part of being a responsible pet owner, so make sure to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.

Emergency Preparedness: Creating a Water Damage Escape Plan

2/3/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage emergencies can occur suddenly and pose significant risks to your safety and property. Having a well-thought-out escape plan in place is crucial to ensure a swift and organized evacuation in the event of a water-related disaster. In this blog post, we will discuss the essential steps to create a water damage escape plan for your home or workplace.

Assess the Risks and Plan Ahead

Start by identifying the potential water damage risks in your area, such as flooding from heavy rains, burst pipes, or coastal storms. Research local emergency protocols and understand evacuation routes and flood-prone areas. Consider consulting with local authorities or flood experts to gather valuable information for your escape plan.

Map out Evacuation Routes

Create a detailed map that outlines primary and secondary evacuation routes from different areas of your home or workplace. Ensure these routes lead to safe, higher ground and are easily accessible. Mark locations of emergency exits, stairwells, and designated meeting points outside the building. Regularly review and update the map as needed.

Establish Communication Channels

Designate a communication plan to stay connected with family members or colleagues during an evacuation. Ensure everyone has a common meeting point and alternative methods of communication, such as a designated phone number or a group chat on a messaging app. Keep important emergency contacts readily available.

Pack an Emergency Kit

Assemble an emergency kit that includes essential items for each family member or colleague. Include items such as bottled water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, important documents, medication, a flashlight, and a battery-powered radio. Store the kit in an easily accessible location and regularly check and replenish supplies.

Secure Important Documents

Make copies of important documents, such as identification papers, insurance policies, and medical records, and store them in a waterproof and fireproof container. Consider uploading digital copies to secure cloud storage or sharing them with a trusted relative or friend who lives outside the affected area.

Educate and Practice

Ensure that everyone in your household or workplace understands the escape plan and knows how to execute it effectively. Conduct regular drills to practice evacuating through different routes and meeting at designated areas. Familiarize yourself with the operation of emergency equipment like fire extinguishers or shut-off valves.

Stay Informed and Stay Alert

During a water damage emergency, stay informed about the situation through weather alerts, local news, or emergency notifications. Be aware of warning signs of water damage, such as strange odors, visible leaks, or changes in water pressure. Act promptly and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and evacuate if needed.

Creating a water damage escape plan is an essential step in emergency preparedness. By assessing the risks, mapping out evacuation routes, establishing communication channels, packing an emergency kit, securing important documents, educating and practicing with your family or colleagues, and staying informed, you can ensure a safe and organized evacuation in the event of a water-related disaster.

Documenting Water Damage: Photography Tips for Insurance Claims

10/17/2023 (Permalink)

When dealing with water damage in your home or property, proper documentation is crucial for insurance claims and ensuring a smooth recovery process. One of the most effective ways to document water damage is through photography. In this blog post, we will provide essential tips on how to photograph water damage effectively to support your insurance claim.

Safety First

Before you start taking photos, ensure that it is safe to do so. Assess the area for any potential hazards, such as electrical or structural damage. If there are any safety concerns, contact professionals or wait until it is safe to proceed.

Begin by taking wide-angle shots to capture the overall extent of the water damage. Include as much of the affected area as possible in the frame, highlighting all affected rooms and materials. These photos will provide an overview of the damage for the insurance adjuster.

Focus on Details

After capturing the big picture shots, zoom in on specific areas and document the details of the damage. Capture close-up shots of waterlogged walls, damaged flooring, soaked furniture, and any visible signs of mold or mildew. These detailed photos will help support your insurance claim and the restoration process.

Adequate lighting is essential to capture clear and accurate photos. Open windows or turn on lights in the affected area to ensure proper illumination. Avoid using flash if possible, as it can create harsh shadows and distort the image. Natural light is often preferable for showcasing details.

Capture Before and After

If possible, take photos of the affected areas in your property before the water damage occurred. This provides a comparison for the insurance adjuster to assess the extent of the damage. If you don't have any "before" photos, include pictures of the unaffected areas to demonstrate the contrast.

To provide a comprehensive view of the water damage, take photos from different angles. Photograph damage from floor to ceiling, as well as from different sides of the room. This will help insurance adjusters understand the full scope of the damage and aid in accurate assessments.

Document Belongings and Personal Items

Don't forget to document damaged personal belongings, furniture, and valuable items. Capture individual items before they are moved or cleaned up. If possible, include any relevant information such as brand, model, or purchase date to support the value of the damaged items.

Make sure to date your photos, either by adjusting the settings on your camera or using the timestamp feature if available. Organize the photos in a logical order, separating them by room or area of your property. This will help you easily navigate and present the documentation during the claims process.

Remember, accurate and detailed documentation is key when it comes to insurance claims for water damage. By following these photography tips, you can ensure that you have the necessary evidence to support your claim and expedite the restoration process. Additionally, consult with your insurance company to understand any specific requirements or guidelines for documenting water damage.

The Hidden Aftermath: How Water Damage Occurs After a Fire

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

When water damage occurs after a fire, call the professionals.

When we think of the damage caused by a fire, we often focus on the visible destruction from flames and smoke. However, another significant concern that arises after a fire is water damage. The use of water to extinguish the fire can lead to a range of issues, including structural damage, mold growth, and compromised electrical systems. In this blog, we will explore how water damage occurs after a fire and the necessary steps to mitigate its effects.

Firefighting Efforts

When firefighters battle a blaze, they utilize large volumes of water to extinguish the flames and prevent the fire from spreading. This water infiltrates various parts of the building, including walls, floors, and ceilings, saturating porous materials and seeping into hidden spaces.

Many commercial and residential buildings are equipped with fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers. While these systems are effective in suppressing fires, they can release substantial amounts of water in a short period. If not promptly addressed, the water can accumulate and cause extensive damage.

Water Runoff

Water used during firefighting efforts can create significant runoff, which can further exacerbate water damage. The runoff may pool around the property, seep into the foundation, and infiltrate neighboring areas, leading to additional complications.

Structural Damage

Water can weaken the structural integrity of a building by compromising load-bearing elements, causing warping, swelling, or deterioration. As water saturates materials like wood, drywall, and insulation, they may lose their strength and integrity, requiring thorough drying and potential replacement.

Mold and Mildew Growth

Moisture left behind after a fire can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. Mold spores thrive in damp conditions and can proliferate rapidly, leading to potential health risks and further damage to the property. Prompt action to remove moisture and control humidity levels is crucial in preventing mold infestation.

Electrical System Compromise

Water exposure can compromise electrical systems, posing a serious safety hazard. Electrical components that come into contact with water may become damaged or corroded, leading to electrical malfunctions, short circuits, or even fires. It is essential to have a qualified professional inspect and repair the electrical system before reoccupying the property.

Secondary Water Damage

If water damage is not addressed promptly and effectively, it can lead to secondary damage. Lingering moisture can seep into building materials, causing long-term issues such as rot, mold growth, and the deterioration of structural elements. The longer the water remains, the greater the risk of extensive damage and costly repairs.

Mitigating Water Damage After a Fire

• Contact a professional restoration company experienced in fire and water damage restoration.
• Ensure the property is safe to enter by consulting with relevant authorities and professionals.
• Extract standing water and initiate the drying process using specialized equipment.
• Remove damaged materials and assess the extent of structural damage.
• Address any mold growth or potential mold risks through professional remediation.
• Repair or replace compromised electrical systems under the guidance of licensed electricians.
• Implement preventive measures, such as moisture barriers and improved ventilation, to minimize future water damage risks.

Water damage is an often-overlooked consequence that can occur after a fire. Understanding how water damage happens and the potential risks it poses is crucial for effective recovery and restoration. Swift action, professional assistance, and thorough mitigation efforts are essential to minimize the impact of water damage and ensure the safety and integrity of the property. Remember, addressing both fire and water damage comprehensively is key to a successful recovery process.

How to file a water damage claim.

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can be devastating to your home or business. But if you are insured, filing a water loss claim is actually pretty simple. Here's what you need to know about the process.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

If you have received water damage to your home or business, the first thing you should do is contact your insurance company. They will want to know what happened, how much damage there is and whether or not they need to file a claim on your behalf. If they do, they will send out an adjuster who can assess the situation and provide advice on next steps.

Talk to your insurance adjuster about your coverage and options.

If you have a water damage claim, it's important to talk to your insurance adjuster. Insurance adjusters are trained to help you and your family understand what's covered under the terms of your policy. They can also help guide you through the claims process, including negotiating with contractors and vendors on your behalf.

In most cases, insurance companies will require that any repairs be performed by licensed professionals who hold liability insurance themselves and if they don't meet these requirements, then it may be necessary for someone from the company itself to step in and finish the job instead of hiring someone else at an inflated cost just because he happened by first.

Document the damage with photos or videos.

Take photos of the damage. You can use your phone to take photos, but if you have the option, it's best to use a camera. The more angles and perspectives you capture in these images, the better. For example, if there's water damage on your ceiling and walls, as well as inside cabinets or closets and possibly even under rugs, take photos from each room so that you have documentation of how far-reaching this issue may be and how much work will be required to fix it all up again!

Get pictures from outside as well. It might seem obvious that one should snap shots from outside their home after experiencing any kind of severe weather event, like flooding. Many people forget about this step when trying to document their claim with insurance companies or other agencies involved in filing claims for homeowners' insurance policies.

A water loss claim can be complicated, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming

File a claim as soon as possible after discovering the damage. Your insurance company will want documentation of the damage and how it happened, so take photos and video of any affected areas before cleaning up or making repairs. If possible, keep a record of all your phone calls with adjusters and other representatives from your insurance company so that there are no misunderstandings later on. A water loss claim can be complicated, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Make sure you understand what type of policy coverage applies in your case, theft vs vandalism or natural disaster, and whether or not any specific exclusions apply (like earthquake coverage).

Give SERVPRO a call for your water restoration emergency. Our technicians are ready to help 24/7.

Unclogging A Shower Drain

11/10/2022 (Permalink)

Unclogging A Shower Drain

Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems, and they can cause a lot of trouble. It's important to know how to unclog a shower drain before it becomes an issue. If you've got a clogged shower drain, don't let it sit for too long because this problem can quickly escalate into something more serious.

The main reason your bathtub or shower drain clogs is because it gets dirty.

The first step in unclogging a drain is to remove the debris that's causing it to become clogged. This can be done by using different methods, such as:

• Using a plunger with soapy water (do this every day)
• Using a chemical cleaner to break up any soap scum on the side of your tub or shower wall

You should also use these tips for preventing future clogs:

Moisture in the bathroom can lead to mold and mildew which can also clog your shower drain.

If you live in a humid climate, or if your Nixon, TX home is not well insulated, moisture may be building up in your bathroom. This excess moisture can lead to mold and mildew which can clog your shower drain. Clogged drains can cause damage to other parts of your home through water damage and mold growth. You should inspect your shower drain regularly for signs of blockage such as slow draining or standing water after use.

Blockages in the pipes can result from hair, bath products, soap and mineral deposits from hard water.

Blockages in your shower drain can be caused by a variety of things. Hair and soap scum buildup, or mineral deposits from hard water are common culprits.

To prevent clogged drains, use a drain cleaner regularly to keep the pipes clear.

If left untreated, your clogged drain could eventually lead to water damage, mold growth, and structural damage.

The bathroom is one of the most humid places in your home—which is why it's important to keep it dry. There's nothing more annoying than a slow-draining shower or bathtub that leaves you waiting for the water to drain away so you can step out with ease. If this happens regularly in your house or apartment then you may need to call an expert plumber who can unclog your drain without causing any further problems.

If left untreated by a professional plumber, clogged drains can result in expensive repairs down the line as they begin eroding away at pipes underneath your house or apartment building. This type of damage could potentially lead to leaks that would cause major problems down the road if not corrected quickly enough!

Your toilet flushing can also cause a clogged drain.

Another common cause of a clogged drain is your toilet flushing. The amount of water used during each flush can create enough debris to clog your drain, and the flushing itself does not always get rid of all the liquid. If you have a slow-draining toilet and an overflowing bathtub, it might be a good idea to check out this article on how to fix that problem!

We hope this article has helped you understand how to unclog a shower drain. If you encounter any issues with your clogged drain, please contact SERVPRO of Schertz Central, Cibolo, Seguin, Gonzales at (830)406- 2030 and we'll be happy to assist you!

Water Cleanup and Damage Tips for a Commercial Building

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

Tips for a Commercial Building's Water Cleanup and Damage

Water damage in a commercial facility may stem from various causes including storm floods or a dysfunctional sprinkler system. Whatever the case, it's imperative to take immediate action to prevent mold formation and structural disintegration. Here are some water cleanup and damage tips for your Seguin, TX, business.

1. Stay Safe
Leave the building if you believe it's unsafe. Otherwise, if it's safe for you to do so, shut off gas and power to your building to prevent electric shock hazards and fires. If a pipe bursts, avoid areas exposed to sewage due to possible waste contamination.

2. File an Insurance Claim
Contact your insurance company to file a claim and ask questions about the steps you need to take before submitting it. Before you clean or throw anything away, take photos of the damage and create a written record for your claim.

3. Hire Professionals
Bring in water mitigation experts to assess the damage to your facility and begin restoration work. They use special tools such as dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out your facility. These techniques help prevent mold formation and the breakdown of walls and floors. Some mitigation experts also offer claim services to help save you time and effort.

4. Follow These Cleaning Tips
Perform some tasks while you wait for help to arrive. Follow these cleanup and damage tips to start treating water exposure:

• Adjust humidity to a low setting. High humidity can damage structures and paper goods even if they were not directly exposed to water.
  
• Open windows to improve air circulation.
  
• Do not use fans, heat or air conditioning, as they may dry things out too quickly or worsen existing structural damage.
  
  

Recovering from water damage doesn't have to be a hard slog. Follow these cleanup and damage tips to safely get your commercial building back in business.

4 Causes of Noisy Pipes and How To Stop Them

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

Why Pipes Are Noisy and How To Stop Them

When the plumbing in your house starts making noise, it may be a sign of an imminent pipe break. The water damage created by these unfortunate circumstances often requires rebuilding expertise provided by a home restoration professional. Here are four reasons for loud pipes and what actions can be taken before the conditions triggering the clamor develop into calamity.

1. Loose Fittings
Clicking or rattling may be signs of improperly fitted pipes. This condition, prone to worsening over time, must be fixed fast. If you have exposed plumbing, simply tighten the bolts and replace worn-out segments yourself. Should your pipes be hidden behind walls or otherwise difficult to access, have a plumber re-route your water delivery system before a pipe break develops.

2. Copper Pipes
Copper piping expands and contracts along with temperature fluctuations, making them particularly noisy. Luckily, a pipe burst should not be a concern under these circumstances. Remedy the situation by applying insulation or lowering the temperature of your water.

3. Water Hammers
Certain plumbing systems are protected by air chambers that prevent water from slamming into valves when taps shut off. Over time, water hammers are created when air gets replaced with water, thus reducing the chambers' stopping power and making pipes cranky. Replenish the air supply within your system by performing a full drain. If this fails, have a plumber come to your home in San Marcos, TX, to inspect the issue.

4. Water Pressure
Noisy pipes are also known to occur when water pressure is too high. Before you find yourself scrambling to fix broken pipe parts, adjust your boiler’s regulator. If the boiler in your home does not have a meter, seek guidance from a service professional.
Noisy pipes are an annoyance, but the frustration they cause pales in comparison to that of a pipe break. Listen closely to the sounds your plumbing creates and take action as soon as you suspect a problem.

4 Immediate Steps to Take After a Toilet Overflows

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

If you are having issues with an overflowing toilet, call SERVPRO of Guadalupe and Gonzales Counties.

What To Do When Toilet Overflows?

Sewer damage or foreign objects can result in an overflowing toilet. The last thing you want is for a bathroom to become unusable because it is filled with water, especially contaminated water. No matter what, you should contact a sewage cleaning company in Seguin, TX  right away. Professionals should arrive promptly to fix a flooded toilet, especially if you state it is an emergency. However, there are steps you can take on your own to prevent the damage from getting worse before experts get there.

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Most toilets are designed to stop filling the bowl with water at a certain point to prevent flooding. However, an issue with the system can cause the bowl to fill up past the breaking point. You should know where the water main is located in your house. Turn it off promptly before more sewer damage is allowed to enter your house.

2. Turn Off Electricity to the Bathroom

It is also a good idea to shut off the circuit breaker supplying power to the bathroom. Even a small amount of water can result in electrocution if someone steps in it. Many bathrooms in Seguin, TX do not have power outlets close to the ground, but if yours does, then you want to make sure it is not hot when it comes into contact with water.

3. Circulate Air

To prevent the air from getting too humid, you should promote ventilation in the bathroom. Open up windows to get air moving. You should also bring in fans if you can, which you can keep in the other room or hallway, so you are not setting them directly in the floodwater.

4. Remove Soaked Bathroom Rugs

If you can safely do so, then remove bathroom mats on the floor that have sustained sewer damage. If you cannot, then wait until the sewage company arrives so that professionals can salvage your belongings. With a quick enough response, you may be able to prevent mold growth by washing the mat thoroughly.

The Four Professionals You Need for Commercial Water Restoration

3/5/2022 (Permalink)

A flood cut has been performed in this building.

For Commercial Water Restoration, You'll Need These Four Experts

If you need pipe burst cleanup or have a supply line leaking in your commercial property, you should call a professional cleanup company to help you with water cleanup. These companies in Cibolo, TX  can help it look like nothing ever happened. The key to this restoration is the team of four technicians that oversee the following steps of the cleanup process:

• Water Damage Restoration
  
• Applied Structural Drying
  
• Odor Control
  
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning
  

Together, these technicians can restore your business after a flood from a burst pipe or leaking supply line. These are not just titles; each person has an essential job function.

Water Damage Restoration

Water can cause structural and secondary damage that can wreak havoc on your business. For example, if you don’t have someone remove the water immediately, it can cause mold all over the area. That’s why a Water Damage Restoration Technician comes on site.

Applied Structural Drying

When the flood is gone, the job is far from over. Part of pipe burst cleanup is ensuring that the structures in the room get the drying and restoration they need. For example, the Applied Structural Drying Technician may see the need for a flood cut in your building. This type of restoration process keeps mold at bay even after the flood is gone.

Odor Control

If you have ever been in a home that has flooded, you know the musty odor that it can leave. A bad water cleanup job can leave mildew hanging around. This leaves a foul smell that simply isn’t good for business. An Odor Control Technician can keep this smell from coming around in the first place or make it go away if it has started already.

Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning

Another important element of pipe burst cleanup is ensuring that any affected porous surfaces are free from mold. An Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician can make sure this happens. These professionals in Cibolo, TX know how to properly clean fabrics to keep mold and mildew from growing.
With the help of restoration professionals skilled in each of these areas, your business will be quickly back to normal.