How do you know if you have a shower leak

3/20/2023 (Permalink)

Use these tips to help prevent a shower leak, give SERVPRO a call today for your water damage.

It's possible to have a leak in your shower that you don't even know about. You may not see any obvious signs of water damage, but behind the scenes, moisture can create mold and mildew and cause long-term damage. Here are some tips for identifying potential leaks.

Check for water stains on your ceiling.

If you see water stains on your ceiling, it's likely that a leak is present somewhere in your home. The best way to determine if a leak exists is by looking at the source of those stains carefully and seeing if any other signs of leaking have been left behind. If no leaks are found in this area, then there may be an issue with condensation. If there are signs of a leak, call a plumber immediately!

Listen for dripping water, especially at night when you're sleeping.

If you hear any dripping of water at night, especially in the middle of the night when you're sleeping, check your faucet. If it's dripping or has a leaky showerhead, fix it immediately!

If that doesn't work and you still hear dripping, check for any leaks outside your house. There could be a small hole in your roof that's allowing rainwater to enter through. If no one is home at night when this happens or even during the day, rainwater will continue to seep into places where there are gaps between shingles or boards until someone discovers it and repairs them before more damage occurs.

Look for discoloration.

If you see discoloration on walls and baseboards, it's a sign that there is water damage. If the damage is not addressed it can cause secondary damages like mold and mildew damage. This can grow on surfaces that are damp or wet for extended periods of time and cause damages in the near future.

Use a moisture meter to check for water leaks in your walls.

If you suspect that there may be a leak in your home, it's important to check for water damage. A moisture meter is an easy way to find out if there's any moisture on the inside of your walls, ceiling or basement. A moisture meter can also be used in crawl spaces and attics where it can detect water from condensation build-up on pipes or insulation materials.

While there are various types of moisture meters available today (such as digital meters), they all work essentially the same way, by measuring electrical resistance through wood or other materials that have absorbed water over time (e.g., wood framing).

These tips will help you identify if you have a leak in your shower. If you find water stains on the ceiling contact a specialist immediately to begin clean up and remediation. Give SERVPRO a call at the first sign of damage, our technicians have the experience and equipment to restore your water damage property.

5 Things You Must Do When A Pipe Bursts

1/23/2023 (Permalink)

It’s important to remember that a burst pipe can cause a lot of damage, and you don’t want to be stuck cleaning up the mess on your own.

When a pipe bursts, you need to act quickly and accurately in order to avoid further damage or costly repairs. The following steps will help guide you through the process of repairing your burst pipe and restoring your home back to normal.

Step 1: Turn off the water supply.

The first step to take after a pipe burst is to shut off the water supply in your home. This prevents any more water from leaking out and causing further damage to your home or business.

Turn off the main valve in your home that controls the main water line. If you can't do this, turn off any valves close to where the pipe burst occurred. If you cannot find the water valves in your home, contact a professional immediately; they will be able to turn off both hot and cold water pipes as soon as possible.

Step 2: Turn off the power source.

Once you have turned off the water supply, turn off the power source to the entire house. If you don’t know how to turn off your home’s main breaker or fuse box, call an electrician. Doing so will prevent any damage to sockets, circuits, or breaker boxes. This can also prevent injury to people present on your property.

Step 3: Locate the burst pipe.

The next step is to locate the affected pipe. If you have been fortunate enough to witness your burst pipe firsthand, you should be able to easily locate it by looking for wet spots or stains on the floor.

If you do not see any evidence of a burst pipe and are experiencing water damage in your home, there might be one hidden somewhere. Check for signs of water coming out of a wall, ceiling, or basement/attic. Also, look out for water stains on the drywall in your home.

Step 4: Call a professional for water cleanup and restoration.

When it comes to water damage, a professional has the knowledge, expertise, and equipment necessary to restore your property. They will be able to clean up the mess and repair any damage caused by a burst pipe.

Step 5: File an insurance claim.

Next, you need to make a claim with your insurance company. Make sure you document all the damage by taking photos and gathering any other documents related to your claim. When you work with a company like SERVPRO of Highlands Ranch/NW Douglas County, they can take care of the entire claims process for you. This can be a huge relief as you are dealing with the aftermath of a pipe burst.

Breaking down the steps can help you stay calm and focused.

When dealing with an emergency like a burst pipe, it's easy to get overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety, stress, and frustration. However, if you can remain objective and follow these basic steps, your loss will be taken care of in no time.

It’s important to remember that a burst pipe can cause a lot of damage, and you don’t want to be stuck cleaning up the mess on your own. If you notice leaks or other signs of water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO professionals immediately.

Steps to Stay Prepared for Storm Damage

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

The most important thing is to be prepared.

Storms, tornadoes, and winter storms can cause devastating damage to homes and businesses. While it's impossible to completely keep your home safe from these natural catastrophes, there are some steps you can take to prepare for storm damage. So whether you're in the path of an incoming storm or just want to be prepared for the worst, we've got some tips that'll help protect your house from Mother Nature's fury. 

Prepare in advance

Prepare in advance. The best way to prepare for a hurricane, or any other natural disaster, is to have your supplies ready and organized. You should know where they are and how much of each item you have at all times.

Stock up on supplies before the storm hits. It's easy to forget that storms can last for days or even weeks, so it's important to make sure you have enough food, water, and anything else you might need during this time period.

Protect windows

One of the most important things to protect in your home is your windows. If a storm were to hit and you don't have any type of protection over them, it could cause major damage. To protect the glass from shattering, use plastic or wood sheeting and secure it around the window. 

Clear yard clutter

In the days leading up to the storm, it's important to clear away any yard clutter that could be blown away by the wind. Remove any large branches that could fall on your home and clear away loose leaves and other debris from the yard. If you live in an area known for severe storms, consider hiring someone with experience removing fallen trees after a storm so that you can stay safe while performing tasks on your property.

Maintain gutters and downspouts

This is the number one way to prevent leaves, debris, and water from clogging your roof drains, which can lead to costly repairs. You should clean them regularly (at least twice a year) and make sure they are not clogged with debris. If you do notice any damage or gaps in your gutters, make sure to repair them before heavy rains come so that the problem doesn't get any worse than it already is.

Stay informed on the latest forecast

Monitor the forecast and look for any changes that might indicate a storm's path is changing, such as:

• Changes in wind speed and direction
• A shift in temperature
• Clouds or fog forming over your area

Create an evacuation plan

Even if you live in an area that is not prone to severe storms, it's still important to have a plan for evacuation. If your home does happen to be hit by inclement weather, you will be glad you had time to prepare.

The most important thing is to be prepared. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or business owner, it’s crucial that you take the time to protect your home from potential damage during storms. If you haven’t done so already, now is the time!

Steps to Stay Prepared For a Wildfire

12/5/2022 (Permalink)

An important step to staying prepared for a wildfire is keeping your gutters clear.

5 Steps to Be Prepared for a Wildfire

Wildfires are scary, but they can be prevented if you know what to do. Here are five tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for staying prepared in case of a wildfire:

Create a defensible space.

Creating a defensible space around your home can help to keep wildfires from spreading to your property. A defensible space is an area that is free of highly combustible materials, such as dense grasses and shrubbery. It's important to create firebreaks around the perimeter of your home because it helps to protect your house and other buildings from the heat and intense flames of a wildfire.

Creating a buffer zone between this flammable material and your home makes it more difficult for fires to ignite or spread onto your property, keeping you safer in case of fire danger.

Clear your roof of any kind of debris.

Be sure to clear your roof of any kind of debris. This includes leaves, pine needles, and any other flammable material. You should also make sure that your trees are healthy and aren't close to power lines or touching your house. Finally, be sure you have a ladder that's in good condition and know how to use it safely.

Clean out your gutters.

An important step to staying prepared for a wildfire is keeping your gutters clear. The gutter is the first line of defense against wildfires, as they are designed to catch leaves and other debris before they can fall into your home. To keep gutters clear and working properly, you should clean them at least twice a year with a leaf blower or rake.

Secure the space between any wooden structures on your property.

You should also make sure that the space between your home and any wooden structures on your property, like wood fences or decks, is clear of debris. Remove leaves, branches and other debris from the area.

Remove any dead plants or trees from around your house. Remove dry grasses and weeds from beneath the eaves of your home, especially if they have grown up against windows or doors. Also keep firewood and other combustible materials away from your home.

Use a screen to prevent a fire from igniting on the ground outside your home.

If you have a wood-burning fireplace or wood stove, always use a screen to prevent a fire from igniting on the ground outside your home. Even if the screen is in place and functioning properly, there are still ways that your house can be vulnerable to catching fire.

To prevent fires from starting on your deck:

• Never leave furniture on decks when they're exposed to outdoor temperatures; make sure all combustible items are stored away safely indoors when they're off limits to human contact.
• If using propane tanks outdoors (e.g., for barbecue grills), store them in secure containers rather than leaving them out in the open.

Conclusion

If a wildfire threatens your home, don’t wait for help to come. Take action yourself. If you think about these steps before the fire arrives, you’ll be able to respond quickly and safely when it does.

5 Reasons Your Faucet Is Dripping Water and How To Fix It

11/14/2022 (Permalink)

A leaking faucet can lead to a big problem.

How To Fix a Dripping Faucet

A dripping faucet can be a nuisance, especially when it's happening in the middle of the night. If you're having a problem with a leaky faucet, this article will help explain why your sink is dripping water and what you need to do to fix it.

Reason #1: Your Washer Is Worn

You may have a leaking faucet if the washer is worn out. The washer is the part of your faucet that seals against its body and prevents water from flowing out. Over time, wear and tear can cause this seal to become loose or even break apart entirely, thus allowing water to drip at an alarming rate.

To fix this problem, first purchase a replacement washer for your particular model of faucet (you can buy them online or at any hardware store). Once you've bought it, remove all visible parts from inside the spout—this will include anything like screws or nuts—and then take off any cover plates on top of where you'll be working so that you can access everything easily without having to use tools. Next up, grab your new replacement washer and place it inside where your old one once sat; make sure both ends line up correctly before reattaching all other parts back into place again!

Reason #2: Your O-Ring Needs Replacing

If you're lucky, your dripping faucet is due to a worn-out O-ring. If this is the case, it's an easy fix. You'll need to remove the spigot from your sink and take off its parts (using pliers if necessary). You'll then need to replace the rubber ring that seals around the stem of your faucet. This can be done by buying a new O-ring at any hardware store or home improvement store and putting on a new one using tools like needle nose pliers or channel locks.

Reason #3: You Need To Replace a Cartridge in the Faucet

Cartridges are the most common cause of leaking faucets. They are easy to replace and can be replaced without removing the faucet or shutting off the water supply. 

After you have located your cartridge, remove it from its housing by turning it counterclockwise until it is completely removed. Then, insert a new one into place by turning it clockwise until it stops resisting insertion (you should feel this). If you’re unsure about whether or not you have successfully inserted your new cartridge, try tightening it slightly more than finger-tight so that there aren’t any gaps between threads and housing surfaces; if there are no gaps and everything feels secure, then congratulations! The leaky condition has been fixed!

Reason #4: The Water Supply Tube Is Damaged

If you have a leak in your water supply tube, it's likely that this is the cause. The water supply tube connects your faucet to the municipal water supply. If there are any leaks or cracks in this pipe, it will result in drips coming from under your sink.

The first thing you should do when trying to locate a leaky water supply tube is to check its length and diameter. If it's too short, it could be kinked or crimped causing an improper seal around the faucet body (the part that screws into the sink).

If you think that may be causing problems with your leaky faucet consider getting a longer one (usually available at hardware stores) and replacing it with another section of pipe so as not to disturb other systems such as PEX tubing or wiring if they're located on top of each other near where these pipes connect together.

Reason #5: The Diverter Needs to Be Replaced

The diverter is a small valve located between the faucet and sink drain. The job of this valve is to divert water flow away from the sink, so it doesn't overflow. If your faucet has been dripping for several months, there's a good chance that your diverter needs to be replaced.

Replacing your diverter can be done by any handy homeowner with basic tools and some plumbing knowledge. Depending on how much wear and tear has occurred, replacing this part will cost anywhere between $15-$50 dollars depending on where you purchase it.

Sometimes it takes some investigation to figure out how to fix a leaky faucet, but there's a reason. A dripping faucet can be caused by many things: water hardness in your area, the age of your fixture and pipes, or even a small crack in the spout. Some problems are easier to fix than others—and some require professional help.

If you've ruled out all the possible reasons your faucet is leaking and it still isn't fixed, then it's probably time to call a plumber. It's not always easy to find the source of a leaky faucet, but if you follow these steps and take your time troubleshooting, you'll be able to solve most problems on your own.

Sometimes a leaky faucet can lead to a big problem. No matter how large of a water damage event you have, SERPVRO of Highlands Ranch is here to help you get your Lone Tree, CO home back to normal. 

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

10/7/2022 (Permalink)

Tips on how to use a fire extinguisher

A Guide to Fire Extinguisher Use

A fire extinguisher is a great tool to have around the house. It can save you from a lot of trouble, but what happens when one has to be used? This is not as easy as it may look on television! Here are some tips on how to use a fire extinguisher.

Pull the pin out.

The first thing to do is pull the pin out of your fire extinguisher. To do this, you want to make sure that it's in the correct position and that it's pointing upwards. To ensure this, turn your head so that you can see what direction your fire extinguisher is facing. Then make sure the pin is facing up before pulling it out with your right hand.

Aim at the base of the fire.

Aim the fire extinguisher low towards the base of the fire. 

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

You may be tempted to squeeze the lever as hard as possible or to do it as fast as you can. But neither of these methods will produce effective results. The lever should be squeezed evenly, and not too slowly or quickly. The correct way to use a fire extinguisher is by squeezing the lever until the entire extinguishing agent is discharged from the nozzle (this may take multiple squeezes, depending on how much pressure was put into each squeeze).

Sweep from side to side.

The most common mistake made using a fire extinguisher is aiming at the base of the fire and in one spot. Sweep from side to side, aiming low—not directly into the middle.

• Do not use it on grease fires.
• Do not use it on electrical fires.
• Do not use it on chemical fires or gas fires (unless specifically labeled).

This is not as easy as it may look on TV!

There are a few things you need to know before attempting to use a fire extinguisher. First, you must be able to read the instructions on the fire extinguisher label. Second, practice using it in case of an emergency. 

In order for these steps to work properly, they must be followed closely by all individuals who wish to ensure the safety of themselves and others around them during dangerous situations involving flames. If you don't follow them closely then it can cause problems such as injuries while trying out different parts of your home

A fire extinguisher can be used to smother an open flame, but it is not a good idea to use one on large blazes. Instead, call the fire department if you have time and are not in danger of being injured by the blaze. A fire extinguisher should be used only for small fires that are contained or can be easily contained by a few people. If someone is burning their dinner or has lit something on fire in their home, using an extinguisher can immediately cool down the flames enough so they do not spread throughout your house or apartment building.

If your Denver home or business catches on fire, give SERPVRO of Highlands Ranch a call for fire and water damage restoration. 

What You Need To Know About Water in Light Fixtures

8/31/2022 (Permalink)

Light fixtures are the last place we expect to see water

Information on Water in Lighting Fixtures

Light fixtures are probably the last place you'd expect to see water, but it happens more often than you would think. As a homeowner in Lone Tree, CO, you need to know the risks of water in light fixtures, what to do about it, the causes, and how to prevent it.

Risks
Risks of such leaks include:

• Electrocution
• Electrical Fires
• Ceiling damage
• Ceiling collapse

What To Do
Because dealing with water in light fixtures is so dangerous, it is always best to call an electrician for help. Use your home's breaker box to shut off electricity immediately after discovering the leak, but do not touch the light switch, water, or light fixture. Water conducts electricity, so you could be electrocuted if you come into contact with any part of the circuit.
This flooding can also cause ceiling damage. You may notice the area dripping water or sagging. This could cause your ceiling to collapse. A water damage restoration specialist should be called to repair your ceiling as quickly as possible.

Causes
The main causes are water leaking from your air conditioning unit, a leaking pipe, bad weather, and overflowing toilets or sinks. If possible, stop the source of the leak by shutting off the water supply or turning off the faucet that is causing an overflow.

Prevention
Overflowing toilets and sinks are easily preventable. Make sure to keep an eye on running water in bathtubs, showers, and sinks, so that they do not overflow. If a toilet will not flush, do not flush it again, as this can cause it to overflow. Instead, plunge the toilet to clear blockages. Replacing air filters regularly can help avoid air conditioning leaks. If you notice your ceiling leaking at all during bad weather, have it checked as soon as possible to prevent more severe leaks later on. Installing leak detection systems and avoiding harsh, chemical cleaners can prevent leaking pipes.
When you do have water in light fixtures, being aware of the risks and what to do can help keep you safe and minimize damage to your home.

These 5 Things Make Filing a Flood Claim Much Smoother

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

An insurance claim takes time

Five Ways To Prove Your Case

Are you nervous about filing a flood claim? The thought of dealing with insurance can be a bit intimidating. You want your home fixed. The insurer wants to be sure it falls under a plan. To make the situation a bit easier, it’s best to think about what the agent needs and how you can best provide that information.

1. Initiate Contact
Call immediately to start an insurance claim. The quick response shows concern and an attempt to make immediate repairs.

2. Secure the Premises
When you file a flood claim, the residence is usually uninhabitable. How are you keeping the property safe while you are out? Are broken windows boarded up? Is the roof in good condition? Make sure trespassers cannot enter and that inclement weather cannot continue to deteriorate the place.

3. Tend to Immediate Damage
An insurance claim takes time. Don’t wait to fix anything in great demand. A broken pipe or busted sewer line cannot be put off. Go ahead and get the source of trouble corrected, saving receipts to verify the repair.

4. Assess the Property
Allow professionals from several fields to complete overviews of the home. An electrician should check on wires, ensuring that everything is okay within the walls. A water restoration company in Roxborough Park, CO, should test the air and structural materials. These experts provide essential knowledge about the type and extent of contamination, putting together an action plan for appropriate cleanup.

5. Document Everything and Anything
Save all overviews and photograph anything that the water touched. Visual proof validates an appeal to seek financial compensation for personal and property loss.
Homeowners must demonstrate not only a desire to start a flood claim but also a legal and fair reason for seeking financial compensation. Remember to think about what the insurer needs, concentrating on providing an arsenal of information and a solid reason for the request.

How To Detect Mold In Air Ducts

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

Mold present in air duct

Mold Growth In Air Ducts

When you smell a moldy odor while running air conditioning or heating at a commercial building in Castle Rock, CO, you may need to arrange for mold testing, remediation, and HVAC cleaning. A powerful mold smell in other areas of the structure could indicate a larger problem. Ductwork transports mold spores throughout a building and leads to more extensive infestations. Find out how mold cleanup specialists identify whether mold is growing in air ducts.

Check for Visible Growth
Visible signs of mold growth may be evident in or around air vents or registers. Mold may also grow in an air conditioning unit on any of the following components:

• Drain pan
• Condensation line
• Evaporator coil
  
  

If you are not familiar with the workings of a commercial air conditioner, contact an HVAC company to determine whether the unit or air ducts require cleaning. Specialists have the equipment necessary to confirm whether mold is present.

Investigate Moldy Odors
A moldy odor is often the first indication of hidden mold. If mold is growing in ducts, this odor may be stronger while the A/C is running. A thorough property inspection may be necessary prior to HVAC cleaning. Mold spores can recontaminate a structure if the underlying problem is not resolved prior to cleaning vents.

Arrange for Mold Testing
Do-it-yourself mold tests cannot reliably determine whether mold is present in a commercial building. A professional assessment that involves gathering samples can identify which mold species are growing and inform remediation measures.
If you do not see mold in a commercial building, it may be necessary to arrange for professional mold testing. Lab analysis of air, surface or batch samples can determine which species of mold is growing in a structure in Castle Rock, CO. If you know that mold is present, consider waiting until remediation and HVAC cleaning are complete to schedule a post-remediation verification survey.

How To Safely Manage Wet Light Fixtures

7/30/2022 (Permalink)

Water in light fixtures originates from somewhere in your ceiling.

How To Handle Wet Lighting Fixtures Safely

Some things are made to go together, like peanut butter and jelly or cake and ice cream. However, water and electricity are unquestionably not a good match. As a homeowner in Beverly Hills, CO finding water in light fixtures is a scary and dangerous situation. How do you safely act in this situation? What happens if there is significant ceiling damage as well? Take the following actions to keep your family and your home safe.

What Immediate Actions Do I Take?

• First, stop and think before you act. Do not touch the light fixture or the switch that turns it off. Electricity must be turned off at the circuit breaker box. Confirm that the electricity is off by testing safe, dry outlets nearby.
• Unless you are a qualified electrician, do not attempt to remove the wet light fixture. Once the light is removed a new fixture should be used.
• If possible, locate the offending water source and turn off the water supply. Ceiling damage can have a number of causes such as a broken pipe, an overflowing toilet or a clogged drain.

How Do I Deal With Water Damage?

• Water in light fixtures originates from somewhere in your ceiling. Have your home inspected as soon as possible by a water restoration specialist. Without proper inspection by an expert, it is hard to know whether there is significant damage hidden from your view.
• After the inspection, the specialist makes a plan to properly dry, disinfect and restore your home to pre-water damage condition.
• Contact your insurance agent to see if water loss is covered by your policy.

When there is unexpected water in light fixtures at your home in Beverly Hills, CO remember that your safety is most important. Electricity and water are always a dangerous combination. Have the ceiling damage inspected and addressed by a reputable water restoration professional as soon as possible..