Recent Storm Damage Posts
Storm Preparedness and Recovery with SERVPRO of Carbon County
7/19/2024 (Permalink)
Storms can hit with little warning, leaving behind a trail of destruction and disruption. As residents of Carbon County, we understand the importance of being prepared for severe weather and knowing how to recover quickly and efficiently. At SERVPRO® of Carbon County and Pocono Pines, we're here to help you navigate the challenges that storms bring. Whether it's before, during, or after the storm, our team is dedicated to ensuring your safety and restoring your property to its pre-storm condition.
1. Storm Preparedness Tips: Preparation is key to minimizing damage and ensuring the safety of your family and property. Here are some essential tips to help you get ready for the next storm:
Create an Emergency Plan:
- Develop a family emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, communication methods, and a designated meeting place.
- Ensure everyone in your household knows the plan and practices it regularly.
Assemble an Emergency Kit:
- Pack a kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and important documents.
- Keep the kit in an easily accessible location.
Storms can be unpredictable and devastating, but with the right preparation and a reliable restoration partner, you can weather any storm. SERVPRO of Carbon County is here to support you before, during, and after the storm, ensuring your safety and restoring your peace of mind. Contact us anytime for expert storm damage restoration services.
Weathering the Storm: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Recovering from Storm Damage
1/31/2024 (Permalink)
Storms, with their unpredictable nature, can wreak havoc on homes, businesses, and communities. From torrential rain and powerful winds to hail and flooding, storm damage can take various forms, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. In this blog, we delve into the intricacies of storm damage, offering insights into its impact, preventive measures, and steps to recover and rebuild.
1. The Fury of Nature Unleashed:
Storms come in various forms, each presenting its unique set of challenges. Understanding the types of storms, from hurricanes and tornadoes to severe thunderstorms, is crucial in assessing potential risks and preparing for their aftermath.
2. Preparing for the Onslaught:
The key to minimizing storm damage lies in proactive preparation. This includes securing windows, reinforcing roofs, and creating an emergency kit. Collaborating with local emergency services and staying informed about evacuation plans adds an extra layer of preparedness.
3. The Aftermath: Assessing Storm Damage:
Once the storm subsides, a thorough assessment of the damage is essential. From structural issues to water damage, identifying the extent of the destruction guides the subsequent steps in the recovery process.
4. Engaging with Insurance:
Insurance plays a pivotal role in mitigating the financial impact of storm damage. Understanding coverage details, documenting losses, and promptly filing claims are critical steps in the aftermath of a storm.
5. Immediate Repairs and Temporary Solutions:
Swift action is crucial in the aftermath of a storm. Immediate repairs and temporary solutions, such as tarping damaged roofs or addressing water intrusion, can prevent further deterioration and protect property interiors.
6. Collaborating with Restoration Professionals:
Storm damage often requires specialized expertise. Engaging with restoration professionals, such as contractors, roofers, and water damage restoration teams, ensures that repairs are conducted efficiently and safely.
7. Community Support and Resources:
Storms often impact entire communities. Leveraging local resources, support networks, and government assistance programs can provide additional aid and speed up the recovery process.
8. Building Resilience for the Future:
After the immediate recovery, it's crucial to implement long-term measures to build resilience against future storms. This may include reinforcing structures, landscaping for better water drainage, and investing in storm-resistant materials.
Storm damage is a formidable challenge that requires a multifaceted approach—from proactive preparation and immediate response to collaboration with professionals and community support. By understanding the nuances of storm damage and taking strategic steps towards recovery, individuals and communities can emerge stronger, demonstrating resilience in the face of nature's fury.
After the Storm: Navigating Home Repairs and Recovery Following Storm Damage
1/31/2024 (Permalink)
Your home, a sanctuary from the outside world, can become a casualty of nature's fury when storms strike. In this blog, we guide homeowners through the aftermath of storm damage, offering insights into the immediate steps to take, dealing with insurance, and the process of restoring your haven back to its pre-storm condition.
1. Safety First:
The safety of you and your family is the top priority. After a storm, conduct a thorough safety check to ensure there are no immediate hazards like structural damage or electrical issues. If necessary, evacuate until it's safe to return.
2. Assessing the Damage:
Once it's safe to do so, assess the extent of the damage to your home. Inspect the roof, windows, siding, and foundation for any visible signs of damage. Documenting the damage through photos or videos will be valuable for insurance claims.
3. Contacting Your Insurance Company:
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with a detailed account of the damage, backed by the documentation you've collected. Understanding your insurance policy and coverage limits is crucial for a smooth claims process.
4. Temporary Repairs:
If there are immediate issues that could worsen over time, consider making temporary repairs. This could include tarping a damaged roof, boarding up broken windows, or addressing any water leaks. Keep receipts for these temporary fixes, as they may be reimbursable through your insurance.
5. Hiring Professionals:
Storm damage often requires professional expertise. Engage with contractors, roofers, and other specialists to assess the structural integrity of your home. Obtain multiple quotes to ensure fair pricing and verify their credentials before making any agreements.
6. Documenting the Restoration Process:
Throughout the restoration process, document every step. This not only serves as a record for insurance purposes but also helps in case of any disputes. Maintain clear communication with the professionals working on your home.
7. Staying Informed About Permits:
Depending on the extent of the damage and the necessary repairs, you may need permits from local authorities. Stay informed about the permitting process and ensure all required approvals are obtained before proceeding with major repairs or renovations.
8. Emotional Well-being:
Coping with the aftermath of storm damage can be emotionally challenging. Don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or professionals if needed. Your emotional well-being is as important as the physical restoration of your home.
Recovering from storm damage is a step-by-step process that involves careful assessment, collaboration with professionals, and effective communication with your insurance provider. By taking these measures, you not only restore your home but also regain a sense of security and comfort, turning adversity into an opportunity for resilience and renewal.
Storms
9/28/2023 (Permalink)
Unexpected storms like hurricanes and tornadoes can happen without much warning at times. If your property or belongings inside your home are damaged, SERVPRO® of Carbon County is here to help you restore everything we can. We are faster to any sized disaster and can make it “like it never even happened” when it comes to any type of property damage. We can provide roof tarping and fix exterior damages to your home as well as fixing the interior.
Here are some tips to best prepare for a storm to reduce damages and prepare your home as much as possible.
Have an emergency supply kit with food, water, medicines, first aid supplies, flashlights with batteries, and other essentials you may need.
If you are able to evacuate your home, have a plan of where to go and potential family or friends you can stay with temporarily to prioritize your safety. Know what you want to take from your home with you, and even consider a storage unit if you are able to have enough time before a storm kits
Clear your yard and make sure to take items inside or into a garage. Cover up both windows and doors, use storm shutters to protect outside frames and protect you from any shattered glass. Be ready to turn off your power in case of outages.
Grab your emergency supply kit, essential documents, medicines, chargers, etc before leaving your home. Unplug appliances and turn off any gas, electricity, and water. Contact your local emergency management office for help as well.
Give us a call at 570-732-9191 for property damage restoration and we will be at your property as quickly as possible. Our team understands that these times can be very difficult and we want to be there for you as much as we can. We are available 24/7 and will be there to help you ASAP.
Storms
7/21/2023 (Permalink)
After a harsh storm your home or commercial property can be left with a lot of water damage. Water can damage materials inside your home and leave behind a lot of problems that need to be fixed. That’s where we come in! Wallboards can begin to disintegrate if they remain wet for too long; floorboards can warp, sell or rot; and electrical circuits can short out or malfunction resulting in fire damages as well. Dampness can also promote mildew growth which can lead to health concerns. Our production team undergoes extensive training, including Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Certified. At SERVPRO of Carbon County we are here for you in case of any emergency. If you notice any of these issues arise in your home after a storm call SERVPRO of Carbon County at 570-732-9191, we offer 24/7 emergency services and will be there day or night to help you and your family!
Storm Damage in Carbon County
7/17/2023 (Permalink)
Our company is available 24/7 to help with any storm damages. Whether it’s a thunderstorm, hurricane, or snowstorm, we got you covered and we assure you that your property will appear “like it never even happened” in no time! We can provide services from residential flooding and storm cleanup to wind damage and wildfire cleanups as well. We can handle roof tarping, board ups, and even contents cleaning services for items that may have gotten in the crossfire.
We can restore furniture, clothing, and sentimental items that may have been damaged by excessive water, sewage, or flooding as a result of your storm damages. We can also handle commercial properties as well as residential properties, and our team works hard with their expertise to restore everything to its original condition. We can secure your property with a stress-free experience as we handle everything with your insurance company! There’s no need to worry about hassle or stress involving your insurance agent because our office staff and team is in contact with them and will give you updates throughout the duration of your project.
If your property faces unexpected storm damages, be sure to give us a call at 570-732-9191! We can take on any property or business in Carbon County, Palmerton, Lehighton, Pocono Lake, Jim Thorpe, and surrounding areas.
How to Best Prepare for Possible Flooding
1/31/2023 (Permalink)
If you ever experience flooding or water damage in your home after a big storm, SERVPRO can fix any damages you may have and be able to get your home looking good as new in no time. These are some ways you can prepare your home for the chance of flooding during a storm or heavy rain.
- Evacuating and Shelter: Determine both an evacuation and shelter plan in case flooding becomes too extreme and you need to leave your home to protect yourself and your family. Flooding and heavy storms can be a very frightening time, so it is crucial to be able to be prepared for you and your family’s safety needs. Even though it might be upsetting to leave your house with water damage, your safety is the number one priority and SERVPRO can take care of your home as soon as possible.
- Valuable Items: Store valuables on higher shelves or move valuables from basements to the top floor of your home if flooding is predicted to be extreme. Important things such as documents you need throughout your entire lifetime, childhood photos, electronic devices, and sentimental items should be taken care of and stored away to prevent loss and keep them as far away from water as possible.
- Drains and Gutters: Keep drains and gutters clean of any debris that may prevent water from draining correctly. Blockage in a drain can cause water to build up and not be able to drain correctly throughout a system, possibly resulting in flooding in your home if not taken care of
- Waterproofing: Consider purchasing waterproof containers to hold valuable documents such as social security cards, birth certificates, etc. Anything that is paper or flimsy material is at risk with water damage, so doing as much as you can to prevent these losses is essential before an expected flood
- Food and Water: Stock up on non-perishable food and water if conditions are too extreme to leave your home.
- Vehicles: Prepare vehicles outside of your home by closing all open windows and roofs, inspecting doors to make sure they are correctly sealed
- Sump Pump: Consider purchasing a sump pump for your basement to prevent as much flooding and water damage as possible
How to Best Prepare for Possible Flooding
1/31/2023 (Permalink)
If you ever experience flooding or water damage in your home after a big storm, SERVPRO can fix any damages you may have and be able to get your home looking good as new in no time. These are some ways you can prepare your home for the chance of flooding during a storm or heavy rain.
- Evacuating and Shelter: Determine both an evacuation and shelter plan in case flooding becomes too extreme and you need to leave your home to protect yourself and your family. Flooding and heavy storms can be a very frightening time, so it is crucial to be able to be prepared for you and your family’s safety needs. Even though it might be upsetting to leave your house with water damage, your safety is the number one priority and SERVPRO can take care of your home as soon as possible.
- Valuable Items: Store valuables on higher shelves or move valuables from basements to the top floor of your home if flooding is predicted to be extreme. Important things such as documents you need throughout your entire lifetime, childhood photos, electronic devices, and sentimental items should be taken care of and stored away to prevent loss and keep them as far away from water as possible.
- Drains and Gutters: Keep drains and gutters clean of any debris that may prevent water from draining correctly. Blockage in a drain can cause water to build up and not be able to drain correctly throughout a system, possibly resulting in flooding in your home if not taken care of
- Waterproofing: Consider purchasing waterproof containers to hold valuable documents such as social security cards, birth certificates, etc. Anything that is paper or flimsy material is at risk with water damage, so doing as much as you can to prevent these losses is essential before an expected flood
- Food and Water: Stock up on non-perishable food and water if conditions are too extreme to leave your home.
- Vehicles: Prepare vehicles outside of your home by closing all open windows and roofs, inspecting doors to make sure they are correctly sealed
- Sump Pump: Consider purchasing a sump pump for your basement to prevent as much flooding and water damage as possible
Pennsylvania Hurricane Season MythBusters
10/6/2022 (Permalink)
We all watch the news and hear of hurricane season affecting coastal states. What most people don’t realize is that hurricane season can also affect inland states and cause damage to homes and businesses. Check out some of these hurricane season myths and truths to keep you safe this hurricane season:
Myth: Only homes and communities on the coast need to be worried when a hurricane is approaching. People living further inland are safe.
Truth: Some hurricanes can create winds that have a 1000 mile diameter. These winds can also spawn other destructive weather such as tornadoes that can reach hundreds of miles inland.
Myth: Flooding only happens in a coastal area.
Truth: Storm surges from hurricanes can travel tens of miles inland. Rain from hurricanes can cause flooding hundreds of miles away from the coastline.
Myth: My home and homeowners insurance policy will cover all damages from a hurricane.
Truth: Standard property insurance policies, like home or homeowners insurance, provide protection from many things, including some of the damages caused by a hurricane. They will not, however, cover flood damage, whether it comes from the storm surge or rainfall.
While we won’t get hit with the brunt of a hurricane we can be susceptible to property damages caused by one. Stay alert during this season and monitor your local weather. SERVPRO of Carbon County and Pocono Pines offers 24/7 emergency services. Give us a call if your home or business becomes damaged this hurricane season, 570-732-9191!
Storm Damage Is No Problem For SERVPRO!
9/28/2022 (Permalink)
Storms can occur without warning and leave a lot of damage in their wake. Damage from storms and floods require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. As leaders in the storm and water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-storm condition. In addition, storms and floods don’t wait for normal business hours, and neither do we!
You can depend on an immediate response from our highly trained technicians at SERVPRO of Carbon County & Pocono Pines, who are available 24 hours, seven days a week to respond to these disasters. When a storm hits your Carbon County home or business, you need the company with storm damage experience and expertise. SERVPRO of Carbon County & Pocono Pines are here to help you and your residential or commercial property today! Give us a call at 570-732-9191!
Storms
7/22/2022 (Permalink)
After a harsh storm a lot of damage can occur due to water. At SERVPRO of Carbon County we are here to help you understand. The water damages materials. Wallboard will disintegrate if it remains wet too long; wood can swell, warp, or rot; electrical parts can short out, malfunction, and cause fires or shock.
Mud, silt and unknown contaminants in the water not only get everything dirty, they also create a health hazard.
Dampness promotes the growth of mildew, a mold or fungus that can grow on everything.
The following steps work on all three of these problems. It is very important that they be followed in order.
Lower the humidity: Everything will dry more quickly and clean more easily if you can reduce the humidity in the home. There are five ways for you to lower the humidity and stop the rot and mildew. But you'll have to delay using some methods if you have no electricity.
Open up the house: If the humidity outside is lower than indoors, and if the weather permits, open all the doors and windows to exchange the moist indoor air for drier outdoor air. Your body will tell if the humidity is lower outdoors. If the sun is out, it should be drier outside. If you have a thermometer with a humidity gauge, you can monitor the indoor and outdoor humidity.
On the other hand, when temperatures drop at night, an open home is warmer and will draw moisture indoors. At night and other times when the humidity is higher outdoors, close up the house.
Open closet and cabinet doors: Remove drawers to allow air circulation. Drawers may stick because of swelling. Don't try to force them. Speed drying by opening up the back of the cabinet to let the air circulate. You will probably be able to remove the drawers as the cabinet dries out.
Use fans: Fans help move the air and dry out your home. Do not use central air conditioning or the furnace blower if the ducts were under water. They will blow out dirty air, that might contain contaminants from the sediment left in the duct work. Clean or hose out the ducts first.
Run dehumidifiers: Dehumidifiers and window air conditioners will reduce the moisture, especially in closed up areas.
Storms
7/18/2022 (Permalink)
When storms occur without warning you might not know how to address the situation. Whether it is a flood, wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards. When disasters strike your life might be upside-down.
We are the professionals who restore your home or business back in a timely manner. We offer 24/7 emergency service. We will work with your insurance company to make it easier and quicker to work on your property. We have highly trained staff to help you on the scene and guide you through the restoration process.
When a storm or other emergency happens, we can offer roof tarp and board-up services. If your windows or walls are damaged, we will dispatch a professional to secure your property. If you have damage caused by a storm, call SERVPRO of Carbon County & Pocono Pines today - 570-732-9191.
Storms happen, SERVPRO can help!
1/31/2022 (Permalink)
In Pennsylvania, we can get some heavy rains and brutal storms. It only takes a storm to cause flooding in a parking garage, leaving behind a mudded mess. Have no fear, as the cleaning professionals knew exactly how to handle it.
The receded water left a layer of mud that required our team to respond!
The first step was to deep pressure wash the entire parking garage. Next, we extracted all excess water. Once this step was completed, we set equipment to properly dry it all out. The final step is to provide a detailed cleaning to ensure the property looks "Like it never even happened." If you are experience storm damage in Carbon County or Pocono Pines, Call us today at 570-732-9191. We are here to help!
Storms
1/31/2022 (Permalink)
When the snow hits it may look pretty but can cause issues to your home or business.
The first common issue with winter weather conditions is Ice Damming. Ice damming can cause water to leak into your property due to water not properly draining off of your roof.
Another common issue is frozen pipes. As the temperature drops, your pipes will start to freeze at 20 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water freezes it causes the pipes to expand. This creates pressure on a pipe that can cause it to burst. This will result in flooding to your home or business.
If you are experienced a pipe burst, SERVPRO of Carbon County and Pocono Pines has the skills to make your home or business look "Like it never even happened." Call today - 570-732-9191
Winter is coming!
10/6/2021 (Permalink)
With the cold winter weather coming...it means one thing….ice dams. Pretty icicles dangling from your roof could spell trouble.
As winter approaches, you may experience ice dams that are common in the winter. Ice dams form when snow melts on your roof until it meets the unheated bottom edge of the roof and then freezes. Any additional melted snow or water will not properly drain off the roof and can cause many issues to your home.
Ice damming can cause water leak(s) into your home. This leak can cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas. Every winter, we repair countless ceilings and walls saturated by ice dams. Carefully remove ice from your gutters to prevent costly damage!
If you are experiencing any ice dams in your home, SERVPRO of Carbon County and Pocono Pines can help you! Please call us at 570-732-9191!
Storms
10/1/2021 (Permalink)
As you may know, we recently experienced hurricane IDA. This left homes, businesses and roads flooded. As many homeowners are stressed with their home flooded. We made it painless and as easy as possible for our customers.
Did you know flood water can be extremely dangerous? Water from storms can contain microorganisms, such as, E Coli, Giardia, Hepatitis A, Cholera and more. Toxins can also contain vehicle fluids, chemicals, decaying animals and garbage.
We are experts in flood cleanup. We do not recommend leaving flood water in your home as it can be extremely dangerous to be around. Being around this water can expose yourself to dangerous waterborne pathogens and electrical shock.
SERVPRO of Carbon County, Pocono Pines can help you during flooding! Call us at 570-732-9191!
Do's and Don'ts tips for your flooded basement!
7/23/2021 (Permalink)
The do’s and don’ts when you're experiencing a flooded basement.
Never attempt to enter the flooded basement prematurely, as this can expose yourself to dangerous waterborne pathogens and electrical shock.
It is important to shut off power in your home to avoid water coming into contact with electrical appliances or devices.
Act fast when water is in your home. The longer flood water is in your home the more damage it can cause.
As soon as a flood occurs, call your insurance provider. They can determine if the damage will be covered.
Water can cause mold to grow and it is important to have your property inspected for mold.
Call SERVPRO of Carbon County and Pocono Pines to help you in a flood. We offer 24/7 emergency service.
Flood Damage Tips from SERVPRO of Carbon County and Pocono Pines!
7/19/2021 (Permalink)
The do’s and don’ts when you're experiencing a flooded basement.
Never attempt to enter the flooded basement prematurely, as this can expose yourself to dangerous waterborne pathogens and electrical shock.
It is important to shut off power in your home to avoid water coming into contact with electrical appliances or devices.
Act fast when water is in your home. The longer flood water is in your home the more damage it can cause.
As soon as a flood occurs, call your insurance provider. They can determine if the damage will be covered.
Water can cause mold to grow and it is important to have your property inspected for mold.
Call SERVPRO of Carbon County and Pocono Pines to help you in a flood. We offer 24/7 emergency service.
24/7 Emergency Service