Spring Storms and Weather Events in the United States | SERVPRO® of Williamson County

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to severe weather. SERVPRO of Williamson County is a click away if you experience any damage.

Because the United States is one of the world's most significant countries, it has a vast and varied terrain. As a consequence, seasonal weather in the United States isn't uniform—different portions of the country face varying types of weather conditions, which leads to different levels of weather concerns for various locations.

Let's take a look at the weather patterns that can form as spring approaches and warm and cold air masses collide across the country—and what we may learn from them in Tennessee.

From December through April, the Pacific Northwest is prone to heavy rain, which might cause flooding and water damage. Snow will continue to build at higher elevations as the season progresses, bringing difficulties of its own owing to melting and runoff.

The Upper Midwest and Northeast have the longest winter season, with temperatures remaining below freezing for the majority of it. People can anticipate ice storms, blizzards, and even significant snowfall until late spring or early summer in Maine to Minnesota.

Extreme heat waves, on the other hand, will be a major problem in the Southwest and southern West Coast. The possibility of tsunamis produced by tectonic activity in the South Pacific region, including Hawaii, will be high on watch.

From Iowa to Texas, the center of the country will need to be on guard for windstorms, derechos and the prospect of wildfires, which might swiftly spread due to strong winds and arid conditions. Tornado Alley is especially vulnerable to tornadoes, with a large part of this region being known as such.

Finally, throughout the Southeast, we can anticipate a wide range weather events, ranging from thunderstorms and tornadoes in low-lying regions to early-season hurricanes along the shoreline later in the spring. Late-season snow has hit numerous locations in Middle Tennessee.

Extreme weather can happen in any part of the United States. While it varies from state to state, being aware and prepared for severe weather is never a bad idea.

Help is only a phone call or an email away if extreme weather causes you property damage from water, fire, or other forces. For local, rapid, professional restoration, contact SERVPRO of Williamson County. We are always Here to Help.

6 Hurricane Preparation Tips for Businesses

2/5/2022 (Permalink)

Keep computer files backed up on an external hard drive or cloud in case of an emergency.

Storm Tips For Businesses

For six months each year, businesses in and near coastal communities, such as Spring Hill, TN, are vulnerable to hurricane damage. Unlike other severe storms, hurricanes rarely occur unexpectedly. As a result, business owners usually have ample time to safeguard their property. Following six key measures can help every commercial organization prepare for these potentially devastating storms.

1. Shield Windows

During a hurricane, high winds can send debris flying, leaving glass doors and windows vulnerable to shattering. For this reason, it’s imperative that you shield these structures with plywood or shutters.

2. Trim Trees

Tree limbs near your building can also damage infrastructure. To alleviate this concern, you should keep landscaping neatly trimmed and routinely remove dead branches.

3. Raise Important Equipment

Significant rainfall can cause flooding. To prepare for this possibility and avert catastrophic water damage, you should elevate essential equipment, such as vital components of your HVAC system.

4. Erect Sandbag Barricade

Flooding can be an extremely destructive form of hurricane damage for numerous reasons. In addition to damaging equipment, severe water inundation can also saturate carpets, drywall and insulation, increasing the risk of mold contamination. To minimize these risks and help divert water away from your building, you can erect a sandbag barricade.

5. Protect Electronic Equipment

Protecting computers, printers and other electronic equipment may also be a priority. To shield these devices from water damage, you should turn them off, unplug every cord and wire and then wrap the unit in plastic.

6. Backup Important Documents

Important documents may not survive the storm. Because of this risk, you should safely store backup copies of employee files, legal documents and financial records offsite. You can also attempt to salvage onsite documents by placing them inside waterproof containers.

The Benefits of Interruption Insurance

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Interruption insurance can help you manage the costs of doing so.

The Benefits of Interruption Insurance

Your commercial insurance package should include everything that is necessary to protect your business. It can contain property insurance, flood insurance, liability policies, and workers' compensation. It should also include a business interruption policy. If your building in Fairview, TN, is damaged by a storm, you may have to rethink your business plan while you rebuild. Interruption insurance can help you manage the costs of doing so.

Protects You

Your property insurance covers the remediation of the physical damage done by a storm. Your interruption insurance, on the other hand, compensates you for the fallout of the closed business. It typically covers basic expenses:

• Temporary relocation costs
  
• Profits lost during closure
  
• Operating expenses
  
• Training costs for new machinery
  
• Civil authority ingress and egress
  
  

Helps You Stay in Business

There are other consequences of closing your doors while you rebuild other than profit losses. You may lose faithful clients who have to look elsewhere for the services you provide while you are shut down. You may also lose out on new clients whom you are not able to reach while your business isn't functional. Business interruption insurance can give you the support you need to keep your business open so that you can retain old clients and possibly even gain new ones.

Can Be Adjusted To Fit Your Needs

All interruption insurance policies are not exactly the same. You may decide to adjust the waiting period for your benefits to save money, or you may decide it's worth the extra cost to have the payout come in as early as possible. The main factor in determining the cost of the policy is the specific expenses it needs to cover to get you up and running again. Your agent or broker can help guide you to a policy that fits your needs and budget.

When you need to rebuild the location of your business, an interruption policy comes in handy. It can compensate you for losses while you're closed as well as the expenses associated with opening again.

This Is a Drill: How To Teach Your Escape Plan to Your Employees

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Teach your employees about your escape plan.

How to Teach Your Employees About Your Escape Plan

An unexpected disaster can cause fear and panic in your employees. A solid emergency plan for escaping that disaster, however, can increase their confidence and thus the likelihood that they will conduct themselves calmly and rationally when a problem arises. If a situation that requires evacuation comes up during the workday, you will be glad you made a plan and trained employees to carry it out through the use of practice sessions such as a fire drill.

Making the Plan

As the business owner, you are the best equipped to devise the escape plan for your business in Franklin, Tennessee that will work the best for your employees. Each plan should contain the following elements:

• Alarm procedures
• Evacuation routes and meeting areas
• Chain of command and division of responsibilities
• Emergency kit containing water, flashlights and first aid items
• Contact list of employees for confirming their safety
• Clear reporting structure

Contact information for insurance company and restoration specialists

The time to plan for a natural disaster or fire is before it happens. After you have the plan, it's time to train your employees.

Training the Staff

Whether you are staging a fire drill or testing storm procedures, the information should always proceed the practice. Include evacuation plans in your yearly training. Impress upon your employees the importance of understanding the plan and encourage questions and concerns during the discussion. At some point, you can test the plan with a drill. Only a handful of personnel who will be assisting with key elements of the procedures need to know when the drill is planned. That way, employees can actually experience the surprise they may feel if the real situation should ever arise. During the drill, take note of what goes right and what needs improvement so that you can tweak the plan or training as needed.

Planning how you want your employees to respond in a disastrous situation and training them to implement the plan can keep them safe. Each fire drill brings you closer to a calm, smooth resolution.

Black Water Facts

9/19/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage of any kind is an event that no homeowner relishes.

To folks who own homes in Arrington, TN, the prospect of floodwater damage in the aftermath of water infiltration can be a chilling thought. The type of inundation makes a difference in what will likely be required for effective remediation, and some floods are definitely worse than others.

Defining Characteristics

Blackwater is the term used to describe a type of liquid that can cause negative health effects upon exposure. Sources of this unsanitary condition include the following:

• Sewage from a toilet or bidet containing urine and fecal matter
• Floodwater from rivers and streams
• Ground surface water entering a home or building

Aside from the expense and inconvenience of water damage, serious illness and disease can result from encountering unsanitary water in various ways. Ingesting it, inhaling it in droplet form, and even exposing broken or unbroken skin can be hazardous to one’s health. Campylobacteriosis, cryptosporidiosis, giardiasis, leptospirosis, and gastroenteritis are common infections caused by this kind of exposure and typically produce diarrhea, fever, and chills. More serious threats include hepatitis and infected wounds that can escalate to become life-threatening, especially if left untreated.

Remedying Concerns

A timely and professional response is crucial in remediating a home compromised by raw sewage. Contaminated water must be extracted, and an assessment of what can withstand antimicrobial cleaning, and what must be discarded, must be made. Because mold can begin growing within hours of a deluge, thorough drying of the area is likely to be one of the first steps to take.

Water damage of any kind is an event that no homeowner relishes, but the presence of biohazards can add anxiety to an already challenging situation. Bringing a home back to its pre-flood cleanliness and comfort is doable in most situations. Safe and effective industry-standard procedures have been developed and can take away the worry associated with black water flooding.

Ensuring Your Solar Panels Survive Storms

8/8/2021 (Permalink)

Many factors can have an impact on the efficiency of solar panels.

Keeping Your Solar Panels Safe During Storms

Most quality companies are testing their panels to ensure they can withstand the elements. Even with superior products, there are several possibilities for potential panel damage.

Weather

In Arrington, TN, water, wind, and hail are just some of the natural occurrences that could harm your solar panels. Precipitation is something your gear should survive, but in extreme instances when hail causes roof damage, it can also harm your boards. Proper installation should aid in keeping everything in place; however, intense winds can still dislodge items. Panels are not meant to be submerged in water, but even moisture inside them can do considerable damage.

Animals

Animals on your roof may chew or claw at your panels. It is also possible that animals may leave their excrement in a place that will hinder your appliances’ capabilities.

Heat

External sources like fire and lightning can wreck your instruments. Even though the sun is the energy source, it is possible for heat to cause panel damage. Always be sure to have a professional install your boards to not only prevent roof damage but also to ensure they will not overheat.

Objects

Panels are created to tolerate pressure, but there will always be random chances for objects to hit at just the right angle to impair your equipment. If trees, rocks, or people happen to fall, causing cracks, this makes your equipment susceptible to water and debris entering. Particles of dust, pollen, and dirt can impede the functionality of the machinery.

Any time there is a decrease in effectiveness, your first step should be to ensure your solar panels are clean. It is possible that dirt or animal droppings are covering enough area to make an impact. If cleaning doesn’t help, or performance does not improve, check for panel damage. Even if an impairment is not visible, calling a storm damage expert is your best bet to ensure your instruments are operating safely and efficiently.

There are many things that can affect the efficiency of solar panels. Be sure to maintain your panels and call for professional help if they aren’t operating as they should be.

The Purpose of an Emergency Evacuation Drill and How to Conduct One

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Being ready for the real thing will require repetition and continued practice.

Disaster Preparation Tips

Unexpected events can disrupt the workplace and cause confusion, chaos, and even danger. Choosing to conduct regularly scheduled emergency training sessions can do a lot for your Brentwood, TN, employees, and your facility. Disaster preparation can prevent dangers that would harm employees and customers, and may even prevent commercial fire damage. You generate a feeling of preparedness and lessen workplace anxiety by coaching individuals during non-emergent moments. Evacuation exercises, like a fire drill, display safety protocols and keep order in the case of a crisis.

Consider Every Angle

As you prepare for a real calamity in a commercial setting, think of how to handle the worst-case scenario. As you plan to conduct an evacuation drill, there are many factors to consider. Think of individuals on your team who may be prone to anxiety in emergency situations. Consider how to help those with physical difficulties exiting the building, and include them in your evacuation planning. During a fire drill, include steps that help customers and other individuals escape your facility if a real disaster were to strike. As you customize your evacuation plan, take the following steps for better execution:

• Designate a Leader
  
• Determine a Time
  
• Distribute Information
  
• Continue Educating
  
  

How to Execute It


To prevent unnecessary stress or harm during a training event, prepare your staff ahead of time. Choose a team member to lead the group. Set a specific date and time, and distribute information about the training to inform all staff members. Educate individuals on what is expected and how to evacuate the building. You may even consider including diagrams to create a visual aid. Discuss the effects of smoke and fire damage, and how to stay safe in a commercial fire disaster. Once the fire drill has been completed, continue to educate team leaders and staff on what went well, and how to improve. Being ready for the real thing will require repetition and continued practice.

3 Things You Need To Know About Big Storms and Insurance Coverage

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage in Leiper's Fork, TN.

Three Ways To Protect Your Business

As a business owner in Leiper's Fork, TN, you know that big storms, like hurricanes, are a threat to your commercial property. If you've purchased a comprehensive insurance coverage plan, it can be tempting to assume that that truly means anything and everything is covered under that policy. However, most commercial policies have standard exclusions, and most often, those exclusions apply to hurricanes, earthquakes, and flood damage. Without the appropriate riders (in other words, additions to your already comprehensive policy), you may find that you are responsible to pay out of pocket for thousands of dollars in damages. Here are three things you need to know in order to protect your business and your bottom line.

1. Choose the Right Riders
After you've reviewed your insurance coverage, talk to your agent about the riders that will close the gaps in your standard policy. If hurricanes are a threat in your area, learn about the types of hurricane riders that are available. There are also riders for flood damage, which may be necessary in addition to a hurricane policy, and for business interruption if you cannot continue to work due to damages.

2. Understand Your Deductible
Does your storm insurance have a percentage deductible or a traditional dollar deductible? The difference is important because a percentage deductible could have you on the hook for paying much more than a dollar deductible. Often insurance companies set these deductible levels, but there are some states that set them for certain types of plans.

3. Know Your Policy Triggers
For some storm insurance policies, a specific trigger event must occur in order to enable the coverage. The National Weather Service must declare a warning or a watch, name the storm, or define its intensity in order for that policy to be triggered. Knowing the triggers for your policy will prevent surprises as you work with a water damage restoration team to estimate damage costs.
While commercial insurance covers a lot, a specific storm insurance rider may be necessary to more fully protect your business in the event of severe weather.

What Is a Flood Cut?

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

Flood cuts performed in a Franklin, TN home

Here Is Everything You Need To Know About a Flood Cut

If you are looking to clean up your home after flooding in Franklin, TN, you will likely hear some terms you are unfamiliar with. These can include things like tear-out and flood cut. Here is everything you need to know about a flood cut and the drywall removal process, so you can understand what is going on in your home during the restoration process.

Flood Cuts
Flood cuts are made when a contractor must cut away and remove parts of your drywall after flooding. This is called a flood cut because it is made roughly 12 inches above the water damage. Its main purpose is to remove the drywall so contractors can address any moisture issues threatening the home's structure.

When They Are Necessary
A lot of times, flood cuts will be necessary. Here are some of the times when it is necessary:

• When floodwater contains contaminants or bacteria
• When sewage is involved
• If your wall was insulated

They Aren’t Always Necessary
If there is no insulation in your wall and the flooding was caused by clean water, injectidry can be used without a flood cut. This process involves drilling tiny holes behind your baseboard. Then, hoses are pushed through these holes, and warm, dry air is injected into the wall to dry out the studs and drywall. However, if a wall has insulation, it must have a flood cut done. This is because insulation cannot be dried out and still function properly.
Understanding some of the things the remediation company will do to your home after a flood is beneficial. Flood cuts are the technique the professionals will use to remove any drywall that has seen floodwaters so that the structure of your home can dry out properly. If there is no contamination in the water or insulation in the walls, it may be possible to avoid a flood cut.

4 Ways to Prepare Your Business for Winter

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare your business for the next winter storm

Four Ways To Keep Freezing Temps From Causing Problems

Businesses in Arrington, TN, know that once the temperatures begin to dip, a winter storm will eventually happen. Instead of waiting for the weather to cause potential damage, taking preventive measures can provide added peace of mind. 

1. Inspect HVAC System
Before cold weather hits, a thorough inspection of the HVAC system should be done. This should include checking for any cracks and blocked blower or hoses. Verify that thermostats are properly working. Once winter arrives, regularly empty condensation drain traps and replace air filters.

2. Inspect Plumbing
A pipe break is one of the most common issues buildings face during winter. If that happens, it means hundreds of gallons of water flooding the property. Instead of having to call a water damage and restoration professional to deal with the mess, prevent the problem from happening by checking that exposed pipes are insulated and any cracks are sealed. Ensure the indoor temperature stays above 55 to prevent pipes from freezing.

3. Avoid Ice Dams
Even a mild winter storm can lead to ice and snow piling up on the roof. When a warmer sunny day happens, that can begin to melt. If the next day is freezing again, the melt refreezes to create an ice dam. If one forms, it prevents water from properly draining, which could mean extensive roof damage. If possible, clear snow from the roof, inspect it for loose shingles and keep gutters clean.

4. Stay in the Know
While storm damage may not be completely avoidable, awareness and preparedness essential. Keep a tab on the latest weather news and stay stocked up on de-icer. When the snow hits, be sure to replace wet mats in entryways to reduce the chances of slipping.
Before the next winter storm, consider the above tips to protect your building and people around.

4 Reasons You Should Not Wait for an Adjuster After Storm Damage

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Ceiling damaged by a storm in Thompson Station, TN

Four Reasons You Should Not Wait For An Adjuster

Recovering from a severe storm can be overwhelming, and you may find yourself wondering what to do if you find your home damaged by heavy winds, rain, and flooding in Thompson Station, TN. You should always check with your homeowner's policy to see if your property is covered by flood insurance, but you should also take action quickly to avoid any additional damage to your dwelling. One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting for an adjuster to arrive before dealing with the destruction.

Here are four reasons you should not wait for an adjuster after suffering damage from a storm:

1. Intensified Damage
If you sit around and wait, the water and flood destruction could get much worse. You could end up with mold damage if damp and wet conditions are not addressed, and you may experience structural issues with your property if water seeps into drywall and wooden frames. Calling a professional storm cleanup and restoration services company can prevent the damage from getting worse.

2. Denied Insurance Claim
As a result of the intensified damage due to delay, your insurance claim could be denied once your flood insurance reviews your case.

3. Out of Pocket Expenses
If your claim is denied due to excessive damage from postponed action, you may have to pay for many of the repairs and restoration services on your own. These costs can add up quickly.

4. Long Wait Times
Adjusters will be busy after a storm, especially if multiple houses are experiencing flood damage from the storm. There may be several people ahead of you, and the deterioration will only continue to get worse as you wait and try to stick it out.
While it is always recommended to call and check with your flood insurance provider, it is not advisable to wait around for the adjuster to come before taking action. Between the waiting, the water damage, and the possible mold growth, you might end up with more damage and a higher bill than you expected.

How To Protect Your Building From Flood Damage

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Construct flood walls on the perimeter to create a flood-proof barrier

Take The Following Steps To Prevent Flood Damage

As a business owner in Fairview, TN, you want to make sure your building is protected from flooding. Thankfully, there are measures anyone can take to prevent flood damage. Flood mitigation measures range from simple and affordable to expensive and extreme, so find the solution that best suits your situation.

Design Your Building To Be Flood-Resistant
When preparing to build, take into consideration that the most effective solutions involve building on higher ground and above potential flood levels. Additionally, make sure all-electric and other utility equipment, such as outlets and switches, are installed at least a foot above flood level.
You might also consider installing backflow valves and a sump pump to prevent water and sewage from getting into the building. The area surrounding the building can also be fortified with flood walls or earthen barriers to provide another layer of protection.

Retrofit an Existing Building To Prevent Flood Damage
If the property permits, construct flood walls or levees on the perimeter to create a flood-proof barrier. Relocate utilities and appliances to upper levels whenever possible. If necessary, update the plumbing with backflow valves and a sump pump.
Additionally, you can cover both exterior and interior walls with waterproof sealants that will keep the water from seeping in through cracks. It is also wise to purchase temporary flood-proof barriers that can be easily stored and then utilized whenever flooding is imminent.

Create an Emergency Flood Plan
The best preventative measure is to make sure you are not caught unaware, even when nature surprises you. Create an emergency flood plan, and make sure all your employees are familiar with and capable of executing the plan.
When creating your plan, consider the structural needs of your property, as well as the safety of your employees and customers. Periodically practice your emergency flood routine to ensure everyone will be ready when disaster strikes.
Flood damage can be extensive. It can also be expensive to repair, requiring professional water restoration services. Take steps now to prevent storm damage and ensure your building and the people within are protected.

5 Things You Should Never Do After a Flood

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Do not drive through flooded street

Keep Your Home Safe From Floods and Damage

When it comes to dealing with flood water, there's a distinct correct and incorrect course of action. Sometimes following your basic instincts can make the water damage worse. Abide by the following actions if your home in College Grove, TN, has recently experienced a flood.

1. Never walk or swim in the water: There are several reasons why this is a terrible idea. The currents may be much stronger than you think and it only takes 6 inches of water to knock you down. The flood is also likely to contain black water, a hazardous Category 3 contaminate.

2. Don't ignore advice from authorities: If the authorities tell you to evacuate your home, then you need to leave. Do not return to your residence until they give you permission to do so. If they have a barricade set up along your escape route, do not drive around it. It's there for a reason.

3. Don't try to be a hero: It's natural to want to save the possessions in your flooded home. However, staying in your house while it's actively filling up with water is a very bad idea.

4. Avoid touching electrical equipment: Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. It's all too easy to electrocute yourself by touching electrical devices that are damp or while standing in floodwater. If you can do so safely, you should shut off the electricity in your house.

5. Do not drive through the water: It only takes one foot of water to sweep your car away. It's best to avoid driving altogether unless there's an emergency. If your car does get carried away in the current, don't get out. If water starts to rise up inside your car, climb on the roof of the vehicle, and signal for help.
It's important to keep your home safe from floods and water damage. That being said, no material possessions are worth risking your life over. Let flood water remediation specialists worry about fixing the damage so you can focus on keeping yourself and your family safe.

What To Know About Roof Damage Mitigation

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Roof inspection in an Arrington, TN home

What To Know About Roof Damage Mitigation

You may have heard about the importance of roof damage mitigation. It can protect your Arrington, TN, home following a hailstorm or other major weather event. What exactly does this mitigation entail?
Mitigation essentially means being proactive when it comes to the condition of your roof. Have an inspector check your roof for problems twice each year. Ideally, you should have one inspection in the fall and another in the spring. You may also want to bring in the inspector after major snow, hail, or rainstorms to check for wind damage.
The inspector can note any problematic areas before they cause a major leak or necessitate roof replacement. As long as the insulation remains dry, you may just have to repair the roof rather than replace it completely.

What Makes a Good Inspector

Of course, you must make sure to pick the right inspector for the job. Look for a person who:

• Lives fairly close to your home
  
• Will be able to perform any roof damage repairs the same day
  
• Has moisture survey technology
  
• Has International Organization for Standardization certification
  
• Has done weather-impact reports
  
  

What Makes a Good Inspection
Your inspector should visibly assess the flashings and membrane and check for any issues that an insurance adjuster or general maintenance technician might miss. The inspection should additionally include core analysis testing that determines the life expectancy of the roof.
If your roof assessment occurs immediately after a storm, the inspector should also use software to document the specific weather phenomenon that occurred. Technology can determine the exact size of the hailstones that hit the roof. Hailstones that are smaller than a golf ball are less likely to harm the roof structure.
At least twice each year, have an inspector check for roof damage to your home. Fix any problematic areas as soon as possible. This way, after a storm hits, emergency restoration specialists will only have to repair your roof rather than replace it entirely.

The Many Dangers of a Flood

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

Trained technicians on site will wear PPE as they extract and remove contaminated water

When it comes to dangers that a company can face in Spring Hill, TN, a flood is one of the most potent, as well as one of the more common challenges to hit businesses. In addition to the impact that water damage has on property, flood waters at times pose a threat to human health. If the water surge comes quickly and without warning, it has the potential to injure employees or customers who are present. Since water can create a danger with electrical systems, it can also cause a shock hazard. Finally, flood waters are considered to be unhealthy due to the substances that could be in the water.

What Is Black Water?

Any water that appears dirty or dark and whose source is in question should be considered contaminated. This is often called black water. Water that comes into a building from a flood could include the following substances:

• Germs and bacteria
  
• Toxic chemicals
  
• Sewage
  
• The remains of dead animals
  
• Asbestos fibers
  
  

Any items this water comes in contact with, such as drywall, carpeting, and clothing, should also be considered contaminated. It is important that untrained and unprotected people do not touch this water or these materials. The water damage restoration should be handled by a professional storm remediation team that is Faster to any size disaster.

How Is a Flood Cleaned Up?

Trained technicians on site will wear PPE as they extract and remove contaminated water. They will use equipment such as powerful vacuums to remove standing water and to prevent further water damage. For harder to reach water, the team will employ air movers and other advanced technique to draw the remaining moisture from the property. Sensitive equipment can also measure the moisture level in the building. This allows the monitoring of moisture removal. The final stages include cleaning and sanitizing and restoration or replacement of damaged materials.

The Car Is Floating, Now What?

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage after heavy rain in Franklin, TN

The Car Is Floating, Now What

Severe weather in Franklin, TN, can bring with it flooding and other significant home damage. For many homeowners, there is a concern about what insurance will cover and what it won’t. Without getting into specifics about coverage, if a homeowner does not have flood insurance, the cost associated can be devastating; however, FEMA does offer some relief depending on the situation and homeowner eligibility.

1. Disaster Relief

Depending on the severity of the storm and the damage inflicted on the city or area you live in, the area may be classified as a designated disaster zone. These areas are often allotted some form of disaster relief and aid. If you want to find out if your city is eligible, you can call your local municipality or emergency management department.

2. Grants

If your location is not classified as a disaster area, you may be eligible for a FEMA grant. These grants max out at $33,000 but they can also go a long way in restoring your home or covering alternative living expenses. In order to be eligible, you have to prove that your insurance coverage will not cover the storm damage.

3. SBA Loans

While the government offers some excellent programs to help people reestablish themselves after a flood, the Small Business Administration (SBA) also provides low-interest loans of up to $200,000 for eligible borrowers to rebuild their home. Additionally, the SBA offers assistance in replacing larger ticket items, like cars, through smaller loans of up to $40,000.

4. Outside Help

you can also reach out to local restoration specialists who may be able to work with your insurance company directly or offer special financing to get you back in your home as quickly as possible.

When a flood strikes and you need assistance because of a lack of coverage, you should always reach out to FEMA first; however, you can also reach out to the SBA or other specialists directly to ensure that you get the help that you need.

We Act Fast In Brentwood To Prevent Further Damage After A Flood

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Our team responded quickly and extracted all of the standing water in this home after a flood. Call us right away we respond 24/7.

Steps To Take During Flood Removal In Brentwood

Every once in a while, severe thunderstorms riddle the Brentwood area causing residents to suffer from property damage. During heavy-hitting rainstorms, moisture can leak into your house and make flood removal procedures a necessity. After you notice the presence of water in the interior of your building, it is wise to seek assistance from a professional restoration company such as SERVPRO. However, you (the homeowner) can do some things to help speed up the mitigation process.

Some flood removal procedures in Brentwood residences can be conducted by someone with little or no professional restoration experience. While professional companies like SERVPRO can help especially when problems are severe, you can put forth some productive efforts by knowing the basics of what it takes to remove moisture. The quicker steps towards extraction and drying procedures get started, the less of a chance that your house will suffer from secondary damage. Secondary problems with your building materials or contents are considered those that occur even though the items did not come into direct contact with water. Therefore, the quicker you can mitigate primary issues or those caused by direct contact with moisture, the less likely secondary damage will exist.

The first step to removing moisture from your affected possessions or structural components is to vacuum up any standing water or liquid H2O that has saturated materials like your carpet. Moisture is much easier to remove when it is still in its liquid form before it has evaporated into the air or soaked into items inside your building. Thus, it is best to start flood damage mitigation efforts by using a wet/dry vacuum to suck up as much water from your carpets as you can. If you notice standing water on hard surfaces such as hardwood or tile, use a mop or squeegee to get it off your floors.

Next, it is smart for you to start the applied structural drying or ASD process yourself. The idea when drying out your contents and building materials is to create an environment inside the affected areas of your house that helps speed up drying and evaporation. Drying occurs most quickly when the temperature in the affected region is room temperature, or warmer and humidity levels are as low as you can achieve. Air circulation with fans can also prove to be very useful.

If mitigating moisture-related problems ever becomes too much for you to handle, call SERVPRO of Williamson County at (615) 790-9634 24/7. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

See more about Brentwood.

Franklin Flooding Got You Down? SERVPRO Can Pick You Up with Fast and Efficient Storm Loss Restoration Services

9/22/2019 (Permalink)

A Picture Says a Thousand Words--SERVPRO's Vast Arsenal of Drying Equipment Salvages Many Flood Damaged Homes in Franklin

Two Types of Air Movers SERVPRO Uses for Franklin Properties

Air movers and dehumidification machines are the backbones of the rapid drying solutions that we can offer Franklin homes after flooding and water loss incidents. As much as these units are a staple of the work that we do, most of our customers are not as familiar with these devices as they could be. The more you can know what to expect during a water loss crisis, the better prepared you are for the work to get started in your house by our professionals.

As much as we lean heavily on the experience and training that we receive through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in water restoration and structural drying, our success in recovering flood damage in Franklin homes is directly related to a prompt response and our commitment to having top-tier equipment. From multiple extractor choices to numerous tools to help thoroughly dry out various materials and contents of your property, SERVPRO can help. Regarding our powerful air movers, we have two primary types that you can see in recovery efforts.

Standard Air Movers
These units are similar to what you might find in home improvement stores throughout your area, though our machines are top of the line. The machines that we use are quieter than many other options and have adjustable settings to provide the appropriately focused stream of moisture dislodging air at a surface or open area. We have hundreds of these centrifugal air movers available to tackle even large loss scenarios without incident.

Low Profile Air Movers
We do not always have a reason to use our low profile air mover units, but they can be useful in situations where flood cuts have gotten made into drywall and paneling. Also, these same machines can more easily reach beneath contents and fixtures where our taller blowers struggle. Our ready trailers feature multiple low-profile air movers as well to ensure that we have the tools on hand to make flooding “Like it never even happened.”

As hazardous as flooding might be for your home or business, you do not have to battle these effects alone. Our SERVPRO of Williamson County professionals has a fast and confident response to deploy as many air movers and dehumidifiers as a home needs to get back to preloss condition quickly. Call us anytime you need us at (615) 790-9634.

We Restore Your Home To Like New Conditions After A Storm In Franklin

9/5/2019 (Permalink)

This home had significant water damage after a heavy storm came through the area. We responded to the call right away and began restoration.

Windstorm Damage Franklin – Roof and Wall Punctures, Broken Windows 

Sometimes storms roll through an area with high winds and very little rain. Storms leave debris scattered everywhere, including broken branches blown at high speed that pierce roofs and walls and windows. While there is little water damage, it leaves your home or office exposed to the elements as well as rodents and birds.

SERVPRO can respond to windstorm damage in Franklin with emergency tarpaulins to cover your roof and plywood for your broken windows and damaged walls. The first step is always to assess the impact of the storm and your exposure to further damage. Clients are encouraged to share as many details as possible over the phone. We can mobilize the appropriate emergency resources based on the initial information provided to control and manage the situation.

Repairs and Restoration

Once the immediate protective measures have been implemented, the Crew Chief can assess the situation and with the customer's approval, begin repair of your building and restoration. These tasks include debris removal from the roof and inside the building, repairs to walls and windows as well as roofing services.

If there is water damage inside the building, we can also remove excess water from floors and also the contents. Depending on the amount of liquid involved, we may use truck-mounted pumps or submersibles for small amounts of water. All hard surfaces are wiped down and dried. Fabrics are assessed and may be sent out to be cleaned and dried as needed.

A combination of dehumidifiers and air movers may be used to dry carpets and furniture after wind storm damage. In some situations, the flooring may need replacement if the damage is extensive. SERVPRO discusses all of these issues with the customer before proceeding. SERVPRO even helps with the insurance claim process as well as paperwork that may be needed.

Our focus is to restore your home or office, "Like it never even happened.", as quickly as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Williamson County at (615) 790-9634 for 24/7 serve. We serve Brentwood, Nolensville, Thompson Station, and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

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Our Rapid Response Team Is Ready To Restore Your Nolensville Home

7/5/2019 (Permalink)

This sunroom had extensive damage after a heavy rain storm. We arrived right away and began the mitigation process to prevent further damage.

Severe Weather Threats Leading to Flood Damage in Nolensville

Over the years, many substantial storm systems have impacted the entirety of Williamson County, including the residents of Nolensville. With how fast a severe system can develop and move through the region, it can be challenging to provide a property with the right precautionary efforts to prevent widespread disaster and loss. Flooding is a common result of these severe circumstances, and this emergency can quickly get out of control without the appropriate mitigation solutions.

From hail to torrential rainfall, flood damage in Nolensville homes can begin with a compromised roof. With shingles getting removed or tree limbs puncturing the plywood base, a penetration point can allow water flow to continue unabated without the appropriate emergency construction solutions. Our rapid response team during storm events includes licensed general contractors that can help with these temporary repairs, but also work quickly to remove trees from the house and provide portable power to supply our SERVPRO mitigation team with the energy to begin restorative actions.

Once board-up and tarping services have completed, water flow into the home from this roof vulnerability ceases. The professionals at your house can get to work on extraction and drying efforts, but also must address possible threats that could require focused cleaning and disinfection. We allow our advanced machines like hydroxyl generators and air scrubbers to continually work to reduce the presence of active mold spores and other potential particles and contaminants from the air in the affected areas.

It is important to fully reconstruct and repair any flood damages that the severe storm system caused to the house after mitigation ends and restoration work begins. Our SERVPRO general contractors can offer full roofing services as well as repairs to a wide variety of damaged materials to help you through this traumatic experience and make flood loss “Like it never even happened.”

Storm systems present structural and flood damage risks for homes and businesses throughout Williamson County. Whenever disaster strikes, you can count on our SERVPRO of Williamson County professionals to arrive quickly with the advanced equipment to help. Give us a call anytime you need us at (615) 790-9634.

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After A Flood Causes Significant Damage To Your Brentwood Home, Our Experts Can Restore It To Pre-Damage Condition

5/15/2019 (Permalink)

If you have had any flooding in your home, call us at (615) 790-9634 for a rapid, and professional response.

Remediating Flood Damage In Brentwood Homes

Brentwood has great access to local highways, not to mention a certain larger city to the north. Its location, however, also makes it vulnerable to flooding from the Little Harpeth River running through the middle of everything.

When flood damage in your Brentwood home comes from a source outside, there is the added threat of soil and other contaminants along with everything else. SERVPRO professionals are ready to treat and eliminate the physical damage and health risk presented by flood water in addition to the issues with something like a failed water heater or a split line leading into a refrigerator or freezer.

Before team members remove any water, they spray it and nearby property with an anti-bacterial agent to eliminate any potential hazard. At a minimum, they wear protective boots before stepping into the water and don full protective gear, to include masks, if needed. SERVPRO technicians then start removal with a pump or other extraction device. For contaminated water, they remove everything directly into the nearest sewer drain or a tanker truck if the flood damaged the drains.

After removing the water, the technicians spray all surfaces that were underwater with the anti-bacterial spray. Once completed, they inspect everything to determine if an item is restorable or if it requires disposal. If needed, they can wait for an insurance adjuster, or else document everything thrown out to report later.

As team members complete disposal, others remove items from home for restoration. In most cases, restoration requires a strong cleaning agent and cloths or sponges to wipe down the affected surfaces. If the item is extremely soaked and covered with contaminates, they use other methods to include immersing the item in a tank of cleaning solution and then agitating the liquid, which forces the solution deeply into an item or across its surface without damaging it.

For SERVPRO of Williamson County, our goal is to return each home to a clean, safe condition as quickly as we can complete the task. If you have had any flooding in your home, call us at (615) 790-9634 for a rapid, and professional response.

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SERVPRO has the Equipment to Make Water Extraction in Nolensville a Breeze

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the equipment and expertise to meet your water damage restoration needs.

Extractor Trucks Help Flood-Damaged Nolensville Homes

If flooding occurs and affects your Nolensville home, you want the assurance that the professionals that you reach out to have the skills and appropriate equipment to remove this threat quickly from your home. While widespread flooding can often come with disastrous effects for your property, our professionals can help to remove the damaging excess water quickly so that our team can get to work on the rest of the restoration work that your property needs to return to preloss condition.

When a natural disaster affects your home, you need a fast response to the situation with flood extraction equipment that can eliminate the rising levels of floodwater within your Nolensville house quickly. Our SERVPRO professionals have many different levels of extraction equipment ranging from handheld machines capable of getting into areas with accessibility issues to massive pumps that can remove high volumes of water fast to protect unexposed areas of your property.

The most powerful extraction equipment that rolls out with our Green Fleet from our main office is our extractor truck. This high-volume extractor can pull floodwater from exposed areas of your home at a rate of 300 psi. For even substantial flooding situations leaving several inches or more of standing water, this machine can get your home ready for the drying and controlled demolition steps necessary to restore the damage fast.

Once the water has gotten removed from the affected areas of your property, our SERVPRO professionals must work quickly to assess the full scope of the damage to determine what materials and structural elements must get removed and replaced. We can use controlled demolition techniques to only remove the portions of affected materials that became exposed to potentially contaminated water to allow the reconstruction step to follow to be more efficient and cost-effective.

While flood damage can prove detrimental enough when the spread of the water is low, when you contend with a higher volume disaster, you need the industry-leading equipment of our SERVPRO of Williamson County team. Our Green Fleet, extractor truck, and IICRC-certified technicians are available 24/7 by calling (615) 790-9634.

Click here to read the history of Nolensville.

A Simple Plan for Flood Damage Remediation in Nolensville

2/10/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding in your home can happen fast. React just as quickly by contacting SERVPRO. We are available 24/7 365 days a year to answer your call.

Preparing Your Nolensville Home for Restoration After a Flood

After a disaster strikes your Nolensville home, many homeowners might be curious as to their own role in getting their property restored. While there are undoubtedly steps that you can take to secure the right professional restoration and prepare for the work to follow, there are also things that you should not do that could be a hindrance or potentially slow down the efforts to return your home to preloss condition after a flood.

As difficult as it might be to admit, recovering and restoring flood damage in your Nolensville home is something that owners simply cannot do on their own. There are too many variables and ways that properties become damaged from the disaster, and that is why recovery is something that should get left to professionals like our SERVPRO team.

The best way that you can protect your home in a traumatic time like this is to contact our professionals as promptly as possible. With the full measure of our resources, we can work quickly to assess the full scope of the damage and the restoration actions required to return your home to its original condition. This assessment should get left to our estimations department, as we can accurately determine the full extent of the damage, including moisture and water damage beyond the pooling water in the home to know exactly what must occur.

As tempting as it might be to begin preliminary work on your home yourself such as extracting excess water or recovering items that are still inside of the house, this is not a safe decision to make. Flooding can weaken structural elements, allowing for collapse and failure under even small amounts of weight. Our contents department can recover at-risk items and belongings from your home during our mitigation once we arrive at your home.

Knowing what you can do after a flood has affected your home might not always be clear, but often, these steps should get taken by our experienced professionals. Our SERVPRO of Williamson County rapid response team can arrive quickly with the tools and expertise to help. Give us a call anytime at (615) 790-9634.

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For Immediate Service in Williamson County, Call SERVPRO

11/4/2018 (Permalink)

Williamson County Residents: We provide immediate service day or night!??

SERVPRO of Williamson County provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Williamson County. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 615-790-9634

Residential Services

Whether your Williamson County home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Williamson County commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

http://www.SERVPROwilliamsoncounty.com/commercial-restoration-cleaning

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Why Flooded Streets Are Dangerous

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

Many residents of Brentwood, TN, have probably been faced with the decision of what to do when encountering a flooded street. Perhaps they’ve noticed cars in front of them that have successfully crossed over with no incident, or maybe they believe that the time saved by taking a calculated risk outweighs the consequences of being late to their destination. Whatever the case, it may be better to take a safer route until the water subsides or a disaster recovery team can restore the area, since reputable sources agree that it may not be worth taking that chance.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Statistics provided by FEMA show why crossing a flooded street may not be the best idea:

• Most cars can start to float in only one foot of water.
• Many vehicles can be affected or even stall in just six inches of water
• Even larger cars can be washed away with two feet of rushing water.

National Weather Service.

The National Weather Service has the following flood-related travel tips that may be helpful:

• Avoid lower-lying areas.
• Remember it is even more difficult to assess flood dangers at night.
• It is better to avoid flooded roads altogether to reduce the risk of drowning.

Consumer Reports.

Consumer Reports notes the potential damage that can result from miscalculating a flooded surface:

• Water can be pulled into the engine and destroy it.
• Your car can become totaled.
• A flooded road can conceal broken electrical sources that can lead to electrocution.

The next time you contemplate crossing a flooded street in Brentwood, TN, remember what the experts say. According to The Weather Channel, 64 percent of deaths in floods between 2004–2010 occurred in vehicles. Even if your experience is not fatal, it can be helpful to understand the risks involved with flooded areas that can mask unpredictable terrain, create unforeseen vehicle damage, or pose serious safety risks.

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

What do I do if I get ceiling damage from heavy rain?

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

As you are aware by living in Brentwood, Tennessee, heavy rain and wind storms can happen throughout the year. Many times these storms can cause minimal damage that can cause slow leaks that can eventually create huge problems from water damage and even microbial growth. In most cases mold can begin to form and will not be noticed until it starts to spread. In many situations you will start to notice black and dark spots on your ceiling. 

If you see any changes inside your home, contact SERVPRO of Williamson County as soon as possible. They will get a team on site immediately to start inspecting the situation and make a recommendation of what is needed. 

Even if you just have a question, you are welcome to contact our office at anytime. 

Heavy wind can cause significant damage to your home

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Living in Brentwood, Tennessee, you are probably aware that we can get storms with high winds that can cause significant damages to your home or commercial business. 

If you believe you have damage, we encourage you to contact SERVPRO of Williamson County to come on site and look over your property. Our team will carefully inspect your entire home to see if you have extensive or just minimal damage. We even have thermal cameras that can detect if walls and other hidden parts of your structure have water damage. 

If damage is found, SERVPRO of Williamson County can facilitate processes with minimum invasion to help correct the situation. 

If you have any questions about our teams processes and capabilities, feel free to reach out to us at anytime.