How to Recognize Hidden Storm Damage

9/11/2024 (Permalink)

Recognizing hidden storm damage early can save you time and money in the long run.

Storms can leave visible damage in their wake, such as fallen trees and broken windows. However, not all storm damage is immediately apparent. Hidden storm damage can lurk in places you might not expect, and if left unchecked, it can lead to more serious issues down the road. Recognizing these less obvious signs of damage is crucial for maintaining the safety and integrity of your home. At SERVPRO®, we understand the importance of thorough inspections after a storm. Here are some key indicators of hidden storm damage to watch for.

Roof

One of the most common places for hidden storm damage is the roof. While missing shingles are easy to spot, less obvious signs include granule loss, which can weaken your roof’s protective layer. Look for granules in your gutters or at the base of your downspouts. Additionally, check for any dents or cracks in metal flashing and vents, as these can be signs of hail damage.

Ceiling

Water damage is another concern that may not be immediately visible. After a storm, inspect your attic and ceilings for any water stains or dampness, which can indicate a leak. Pay close attention to the corners of rooms and around light fixtures. Water stains on walls, peeling paint, or wallpaper bubbling up are also red flags. If left untreated, water damage can lead to mold growth and structural issues.

Exterior

Your home’s exterior can also suffer hidden storm damage. Examine the siding for any cracks, dents, or holes, which can be caused by flying debris or hail. Even small openings can allow water to seep in, leading to further damage over time. Check for gaps around windows and doors, as strong winds can loosen seals and frames.

Foundation

Another area to inspect is your home’s foundation. Storms can cause soil erosion, leading to shifts in the foundation. Look for cracks in the foundation walls or floors, and check for doors and windows that no longer close properly, as these can be signs of foundation movement. Additionally, inspect your basement for any signs of water intrusion, such as damp walls or a musty smell.

Landscaping

Trees and landscaping around your property can also be affected by storms. Examine trees for broken branches or signs of uprooting. Fallen branches can damage roofs, siding, and power lines, while uprooted trees can disturb underground utilities and foundations. It’s essential to address any tree damage promptly to prevent further issues.

Gutters

Lastly, don’t forget to check your gutters and downspouts. Storm debris can clog gutters, preventing proper water drainage and leading to water damage around your home’s foundation. Clean out any debris and ensure that water is flowing freely away from your home.

Recognizing hidden storm damage early can save you time and money in the long run. Regular inspections after a storm, both inside and outside your home, are essential for catching these issues before they become major problems. At SERVPRO, we are here to help with professional inspections and restoration services to ensure your home remains safe and sound after any storm.

Steps to Protect Your Vehicle During Severe Weather

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

Living in areas prone to severe weather, such as storms or hurricanes, means taking extra precautions to protect your property. While much attention is often given to securing homes, it's equally essential to protect your vehicle from the potential damage caused by these extreme conditions. Here are some practical tips to ensure your car stays safe during severe weather:

Park in a Safe Location

Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a garage or carport to shield it from the elements. If a garage isn't available, consider parking under sturdy structures like awnings or overhangs to provide some protection.

Avoid Parking Under Trees

During storms with high winds, branches or even entire trees can fall, causing significant damage to parked vehicles. Whenever possible, avoid parking under trees, especially those showing signs of weakness or instability.

Use Car Covers

Invest in a high-quality car cover to shield your vehicle from hail, heavy rain, or flying debris during severe weather events. Make sure the cover fits securely and is designed to withstand strong winds.

Keep Windows Closed

Before a storm hits, ensure all windows are tightly closed to prevent water damage to the interior of your vehicle. If possible, park with the front of your car facing the direction of the wind to reduce the risk of water seeping in through door seals.

Secure Loose Items

Remove any loose objects from both the interior and exterior of your vehicle, as they can become projectiles during high winds. Items like roof racks, bike racks, or antennas should be securely fastened or removed altogether.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Review your auto insurance policy to understand what type of weather-related damage is covered. Consider adding comprehensive coverage if you live in an area prone to severe weather to ensure your vehicle is protected against various risks.

By taking proactive measures to protect your car during severe weather, you can minimize the risk of costly damage and ensure your vehicle remains safe and functional when you need it most. Stay informed about upcoming weather events and be prepared to implement these tips to protect your valuable assets.

Know the Warning Signs of Tornadoes During a Hurricane

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Hurricanes Can Create Favorable Conditions for Tornadoes

The thought of a tornado touching down in a community during a hurricane is frightening. Most people have seen movies or tv shows where tornadoes have caused significant storm damage. 

Watching it in action on the big screen is disheartening enough, let alone experiencing the situation first-hand. If you have not experienced a tornado, it is necessary to understand how to identify them and react appropriately. Your safety and others depend on your ability to identify tornadoes.

The Signs

Perhaps the most well-known characteristic of a tornado is a funnel cloud. During violent hurricanes, meteorologists observe the development of favorable conditions for tornadoes. Classic signs of an impending tornado include dark skies, large hail pieces, and a dark sky that appears green. People who have witnessed actual tornadoes tend to report a similar claim of hearing a loud noise that resembles a train outside the window. The tornado itself is a rotational cloud that forms in the sky and may or may not touch down. If the rotating funnel cloud loses formation, it can develop again or create an additional funnel cloud without warning. This is important to remember if the clouds appear to diminish. As always, stay informed during a storm by turning on an emergency weather radio, listening for warning sirens, and activating severe weather alerts on your smartphone. 

Seek Shelter

Understanding the apparent signs of a tornado is dire for safety. Seek immediate shelter in the lowest-lying area of the home or business, such as a basement. Avoid windows and glass doors as they could shatter. For added protection, cover your head with pillows or another soft material. Everyday household objects can become airborne and cause interior property damage and bodily harm.

Tornadoes can be eerily fascinating, we strongly discourage driving your vehicle towards a twister to photograph the tornado, as this could be a fatal mistake. Tornadoes cause destruction, injuries, and can wipe out miles of communities. It is crucial to recognize that personal safety is the top priority. Since violent storms, such as hurricanes, can spawn tornadoes with little or no warning, identifying the warning signs can save a life.

As a storm and water damage restoration leader, SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home or business to its pre-storm condition. Call today at (813) 694-9085. We are here for you 24/7, 7 days

When and Where Do Hurricanes Likely Occur?

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

However, storms outside of these dates aren't unheard of. Activity ramps up in August, and peaks in September, and again in October.

Hurricanes form during this season because of two factors: warm ocean waters (80 degrees or higher) and weak vertical winds (little change in wind direction and/or speed with height) is most common. This is the season with the highest frequency of west-moving weather disturbances in the tropics that develop into hurricanes.

The difference between a hurricane, cyclone, and typhoon is the location your in. People refer to thunderstorms as hurricanes, while people near the equator in Africa and Australia refer to them as cyclones.

Call SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park today to restore your Florida property "Like it never even happened." We are available, 24/7!

How Can SERVPRO Help With Biohazard Concerns

9/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park offers other services besides fire and water restoration. Our professionals can help you with biohazard, vandalism, and crime scene cleanup. Bloodborne pathogens can be scary. Bodily fluids, tissues, and other risky substances are cleaned and disposed of by our trained technicians. Crime scene residue can be overwhelming. When law enforcement finishes with the area, let our professional technicians come in and deal with the fingerprint powder, evidence-gathering chemicals, and residues from tear gas or pepper spray. Arson and vandalism can leave home or business owners feeling vulnerable, violated, and unsafe.

We're always "Here to Help" in any situation you might encounter. We pride ourselves on being a bright spot in a bad situation. Should you ever need our services, call our office anytime at (813) 694-9085.

Flu Prevention Tips

9/25/2022 (Permalink)

Sniffling. Aching. Fever.

It might seem that the flu season should be wrapping up. This year's flu season is up there with some of the worst recorded today. All states in the US have reported widespread flu activity this season – except Hawaii. The flu spreads and strikes quickly, but you're not entirely defenseless.

When it comes to flu prevention, we've got 5 tips for you – and they all involve the place where you likely spend your time: your home.

Wash your hands! 

One of the single most important things you can do to prevent the spread of the flu virus is washing your hands. A great habit of getting into is washing your hands first thing when you get home. This will help to minimize the influx of viruses and bacteria that you may be carrying.

Change your dishtowels regularly, or use a paper towel.

You and your family share more than you might realize. Stop sharing germs by making sure that you launder your towels regularly, or better yet, use disposable paper towels to minimize germ transfer from person to person.

Take out your humidifier.

The flu virus doesn't thrive in humid, warm environments, so up your defense by utilizing your humidifier.

Wipe down all hard surfaces.

Flu germs float in the air, but they have to land somewhere! Disinfect hard surfaces like countertops, handles, faucets, light switches, etc.

Look at your home from 'Kid-Level.'

Be sure to wipe down and disinfect areas your children have access to, including those cabinets you may have overlooked during your cleaning or the floors they may be crawling on.

Follow these tips and stay healthy this flu season, and as always, we're here "Ready for whatever happens" should you need a little help cleaning!

When a Disaster Strikes Your Home, Call Our Crew!

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO is the Choice For Restoration

With decades of experience across the restoration services that we offer, we know how to help when every minute counts. We have teams, trailers, and service vehicles prepared to roll out from our SERVPRO facility 24/7 to address the harsh effects of water, fire, storm, and mold losses. We have trained professionals to handle more specific recovery niches like air duct cleaning, biohazard cleaning, abatement, and reconstruction efforts. These talents, aiding in every facet of our customers' work, improve our efficiency and effectiveness in your home or business.

Storm

Storm damage is a common situation that our SERVPRO professionals must address. Properties must remain prepared for inevitable run-ins with hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes, damaging winds and other harmful conditions. Our ability to handle these situations is partly due to our commitment to the training and growth of our specialists, ensuring that each loss incidents gets technicians that can:

• Extract and dry up floodwater (WRT – Water Restoration Technician)
• Clean contaminated areas where they exist (Biohazard Cleaning)
• Deploy air movers and dehumidifiers for effective drying solutions (ASD – Applied Structural Drying)
• Clean Carpets and other flooring types (CCT – Carpet Cleaning Technician)
• Prevent microbial growth or address present colonization (AMRT – Applied Microbial Remediation Technician)

Our disaster team is committed to having the top-tier equipment that gets the job done quickly and correctly for you. We keep storm trucks stocked with inventory of recovery and mitigation tools, including submersible pumps, engine-driven trash pumps, power washers, air movers, and dehumidifiers.

We offer a full-service approach amid a crisis so that our customers do not waste time finding secondary contractors to handle other aspects of their recovery. We have skilled professionals to perform board-up and tarping services for your residence amid flood penetration. We can also oversee full-scale reconstruction once we complete mitigation.

Water

We know how easily water loss incidents can develop, and that's why training our restoration technicians in this niche is a constant and continual process. The science of restoring water damage is evolving. So our professionals have to move along with it – putting these new practices and equipment into use to help our customers with the most efficient and practical approach. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and the outcome of your loss incidents goes far beyond our IICRC training.

Our restoration team has access to equipment and machines that far exceed the limitations of conventional recovery tools. The truck-mounted water extractors that our SERVPRO team uses, for example, can handle the removal of thousands of gallons of water every day. Combined with multiple other impressive equipment pieces, this vehicle sets our professionals apart in water damage restoration.

We also have the capability of addressing the massive loss of water damage for commercial properties and houses. 33 years of industry experience and a roster that features Commercial Drying Specialists (CDS) and those with WRT and ASD endorsements, no job is too big or too complicated for our field technicians with the right approach, equipment, and attitude.

Fire

Our team is responsible for many structures in this area alone; the possibility of fire damage is a persistent threat. Knowing the best approach to handle these conditions hinges on the severity of the situation and what materials, surfaces, and contents have become affected. Our IICRC-Certified Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) and those with additional training in odor control and upholstery/carpet cleaning have access to equipment that can help our team restore loss incidents quickly.

Much of our efficiency in fire recovery stems from these advanced and cutting-edge machines. Soot removal and cleaning, for example, often fall to a combination of specially-formulated cleaning agents and products with automated surface scrubbers that can eliminate residues on surfaces.

Every minute counts in fire restoration. Our technicians obtain IICRC certifications and train to understand how fire damage spreads and the best approach to overcome the damages.

Mold

Before our certified AMRTs can set up containment barriers and begin the often-intricate process of mold remediation—our professionals must locate the source of the moisture and dampness. These conditions are likely to happen again without adequately identifying how the water damage facilitated mold growth.

Sometimes the humid conditions are enough to generate microbial growth, as interior humidity above 60% can grow mold on ceilings and other organic materials. The initial approach is to establish isolation zones using our powerful negative air machines in conjunction with physical plastic sheeting. Mold damage can spread quickly without these containment barriers.

Suppose our technicians reach the situation in your residence fast enough. In that case, many of the hosting materials can be repaired using sophisticated equipment like dry ice blasting machines and soda-blasting equipment. These approaches can remove mold debris without harming the surface and substrate.

You can count the swift response of SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park team in a crisis. Give our professionals a call anytime that you need us at (813) 694-9092.

Reduce Business Disruption After a Commercial Disaster

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park at (813) 694-9092 to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today.

After a major disaster, businesses suffer a variety of interruptions like:

• financial and emotional stress
• production downtime
• sullied reputation
• a plethora of other strains.

In the time period following a trauma like a fire, flood, pipe break, or other form of disaster, making the right decisions can be taxing and confusing. At SERVPRO, we regularly see local companies go through this and want business owners to know we are here to help after a commercial disaster. Part of that help comes through an emergency readiness checklist and disaster plan.

How To Minimize Risks and Loss of Revenue?

Creating a disaster readiness plan for your business can save you thousands on your bottom line, and can save your business, entirely. And the planning process does not have to be overwhelming when placed on top of all other responsibilities. SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park is here to help take the weight off your shoulders by developing an Emergency Ready Profile for your company. Knowing you are, "Ready for whatever happens," will give you, your clients, and employees confidence if or when your business is affected by a disaster.

We Generate A Plan For You

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize the severity of water and fire damage on your business.

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile Advantages Provide You With:

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
  
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects, but will save a lot of time if ever needed.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  
  This helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
• Professionals at SERVPRO of Montgomery County, established as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider!
  
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by for an emergency response.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  
  This saves time so we can start cleaning up the damage, so you can reopen your business as soon as possible.
• Specific Facility Details of your business such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
  
  You will have a quick reference of what to do, how to do it, and who to call in case of an emergency so that you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Contact SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park at (813) 694-9092 to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today.

We are here to be your total solutions provider during an emergency commercial disaster so you can do what’s important: taking care of your clients, employees, and other business needs. 

How to Prepare for Atlantic Hurricane Season?

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Prepare for Atlantic Hurricane Season

Atlantic hurricane season runs roughly from June 1 thru November 30 each year, with September holding the spot for the peak hurricane month. While, technically, hurricanes can wreak havoc any time of the year, this is the time to be on your guard the most. With that said, there are several ways to prepare for these storms during the off-season so you are not caught unawares.

Stock Up on Essentials

You'll want to prepare for the loss of electricity and the ability to cook by stocking up on water, bread, non-perishables and items you can eat without heating. Also, make sure you have:

• Extra batteries for flashlights or headlamps,
• Portable chargers and cables for cell phones,
• Candles with matches. 

Check Your Insurance

If you live in a hurricane-prone region, make sure your insurance covers flooding and other expenses you may incur because of a Tampa hurricane.  

Make a Video of Your Home

If your home is damaged from hurricane winds and water, a home inventory video will help prove the pre-storm state of your home and make insurance claims processing easier. It would also be beneficial to make electronic versions of important documents related to your home and your personal information in case the originals are destroyed in the storm. Include digital files of documents such as your:

• Birth certificate
• Driver's license
• Home's deed
• Social security card

Protect Your Property

Install hurricane shutters or plywood of at least 3/4 inches in thickness. You may need to install hurricane clips to secure the roof of your home to the walls. This is important in areas that may receive a direct hit, and install foot and head bolts on all doors.

Make an Evacuation Plan

When it is time to evacuate, go. Make a plan for where you and your family will stay at least 50 miles from your Tampa home. If you can, pre-pack a bag before the threat of an Atlantic hurricane is severe. Load it with clothes, blankets, food, water, electronics and important papers or photos.

Conclusion

Don't Take Risks. Ultimately, people are more important than things. People hurt in hurricane weather evacuate late or stay in their homes altogether. Be wise and get out early. Prepare in order to mitigate panic and this kind of risky behavior. 

We are a Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources

We live and work in this community; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated cleaning, damage restoration, and construction business, SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park is a proud and active member of this community and is ready to respond to your Tampa home emergency 24/7/365. Call us today at (813) 694-9085.

Find Your Leaky Roof Source Quickly

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Find Your Leaky Roof Source Quickly

After a significant storm, it's a good idea to inspect your damaged property as quickly as you can. Your home's main line of defense is your roof, and it takes a beating. Pay attention to dings in your gutters or tears in your window screens, which indicate hail damage. You may also see missing shingle tiles from the ground, but those don't always represent a need for whole roof replacement. Usually, the leak is coming from a more minor roof feature.

At SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park, we:

• Find the source of the leak
• Stop the leak &
• Clean the water damage.

Find the Leak

During storms in Florida, wind damage can let rain in through your roof. From the inside, look for water stains on your ceiling and walls that indicate the leak.

Common places to see leaky roof damage:

1. Vents and fans
2. Chimneys
3. Window dormers
4. Vent pipes
5. Unsecured nails and nail holes

Dealing with Water Damage

1. Check for discolorations and rotting wood, wet drywall and insulation.
2. If you haven't found mold, start drying any wet materials immediately. Complete drying is critical to preventing mold, and it may take longer than you realize. 
3. If you find mold, remain careful to not spread it during cleanup. Mold grows on wet, damaged materials in as little as 48 hours. A mold remediation professional creates a containment area while working on the water and mold damage. Specialists have monitoring equipment that they use to ensure materials are dry.

For more assistance, call a local construction, restoration, and mold remediation crew like SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park at (813) 694-9085.

Protection from Wind Damage

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

Many areas of the United States have experienced heavy winds and storms this season, and the strong, powerful winds can cause significant damage to your home. Wind damage can result in a range of destruction to your property, from broken windows and fallen tree branches to severe damage to your roof, garage, or car. SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood/Citrus Park is “Here to help” with storm restoration and storm damage protection before disaster strikes. We’re available 24/7 at (813) 694-9085. Here are some steps you can take to minimize the risk of harm to your home when severe weather hits your property.

Preventing Wind and Storm Damage 

It is easy to feel overwhelmed when a massive storm is approaching. SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood/Citrus Park can assist in storm damage prevention to help you save time while preparing for the storm. By taking precautions to protect your home, you can ease your mind and reduce the strain on your wallet. 

• Secure any potential debris around your home such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans, and other objects. 
• Keep up with regular tree maintenance, trimming dead limbs, and removing weak trees, to reduce the likelihood of structural damage. 
• Bolt your doors and windows with foot and head bolts, and reinforce your garage door and tracks. 
• Ensure your roofing system has anchored trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the building in a strong wind. 
• Install a roof covering that will protect the structure from high winds and impact from hail and other debris. 

Mitigating Damage After a Storm

A major storm or hurricane can cause high levels of stress. SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood/Citrus Park is “Here to help” and lessen the emotional burden. It is our top priority to make you and your family feel safe and cared for. We have identified these three key steps you can take immediately after a storm occurs.  

1. Review and Assess the Damage 
2. Contact SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood/Citrus Park
3. Contact Your Insurance Provider 

Before you begin inspecting the damage to your home, check local news to make sure that your area is safe. Watch out for downed power lines and other hazards such as broken glass, standing water, and collapsing roof materials. Look around your property for holes in the roof, broken shingles, dents in gutters, and split seams. 

Once you have assessed the damage, call SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood/Citrus Park at (813) 694-9085. We are available 24/7 and are committed to responding immediately to your flood or storm damage emergency. SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood/Citrus Park can access resources from 1,700 Franchises across the state and country and even utilize Disaster Recovery Teams for major storms and disasters.

If you have insurance, you should contact your provider as soon as possible. We will work closely with you and your insurance to find the best approach to your storm restoration. 

Contacting a storm damage restoration professional and your insurance provider as soon as the storm is over is imperative to limit secondary damage and restoration costs. SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood/Citrus Park is “Here to help.” Call us 24/7 at (813) 694-9085. 

How to Check for Roof Damage After a Storm

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

After a significant storm, it's a good idea to inspect your property for storm damage. Your home's main line of defense is your roof, and it takes a beating. Pay attention to things like dings in your gutters or tears in your window screens, which indicate hail damage. You may see missing tiles or other signs of roof damage from the ground, but most leaks don't represent a need for whole roof replacement. Usually, the leak is coming from something requiring minor roof repair. Find the source of the leak, stop it, and clean the water damage.

Find the Leak Source

During storms in Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park, wind damage lets the rain into your roof. From the inside, look for stains indicating the source of a leak and the area that needs roof repair. You may see water stains on your ceiling or coming down a wall. When you see that, get your flashlight and head to that area. Here are five familiar sources for a roof leak:

1. Vents and fans 
2. Chimneys 
3. Window dormers 
4. Vent pipes
5. Unsecured nails and nail holes

Fix Water Damage 

To complete your roof repair, start looking for materials damaged by water. Check for discolorations and rotting wood and wet drywall and insulation. When you find mold, remain careful and don't spread during cleanup.

A mold remediation professional can help create a containment area while working on the water and mold damage.If you haven't found mold, be sure to start drying any wet materials immediately. Mold can begin growing on wet damaged materials in as little as 48 hours. Complete drying is critical to preventing mold, and it may take longer than you realize. Specialists have monitoring equipment that they use to ensure materials are dry. Call SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park today at (813) 694-9085.

When and Where Do Hurricanes Likely Occur?

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane season in the Atlantic Runs from June 1st to November 30th

However, storms outside of these dates aren't unheard of. Activity ramps up in August, and peaks in September, and again in October.

Hurricanes form during this season because of two factors: warm ocean waters (80 degrees or higher) and weak vertical winds (little change in wind direction and/or speed with height) is most common. This is the season with the highest frequency of west-moving weather disturbances in the tropics that develop into hurricanes.

The difference between a hurricane, cyclone, and typhoon is the location your in. People refer to thunderstorms as hurricanes, while people near the equator in Africa and Australia refer to them as cyclones.

Call SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park today to restore your Florida property "Like it never even happened." We are available, 24/7!