Water Damage Restoration: Why SERVPRO is Your Best Choice

10/1/2024 (Permalink)

Water extraction is just one of the processes SERVPRO uses during the water damage restoration project.

Water damage can strike at any moment—be it a burst pipe, severe storm, or a simple appliance failure. When disaster strikes, the clock is ticking. Acting quickly is crucial to prevent further damage and mold growth. That’s where professional water damage restoration comes in, and among the many options available, SERVPRO® stands out as the best choice for homeowners and businesses alike.

Understanding Water Damage Restoration

Water damage restoration is a comprehensive process that involves assessing the damage, removing excess water, drying out affected areas, and restoring your property to its original state. The restoration process typically includes several key steps:

1. Assessment and Inspection: Professionals evaluate the extent of the damage, identify the source of the water, and determine the best course of action.

2. Water Removal: High-powered pumps and vacuums are used to remove standing water quickly and efficiently.

3. Drying and Dehumidification: Specialized equipment, such as air movers and dehumidifiers, are employed to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture.

4. Cleaning and Sanitizing: All affected areas are cleaned and disinfected to prevent mold growth and ensure a healthy environment.

5. Restoration: This final step involves repairing or replacing damaged materials, such as drywall, flooring, and cabinetry.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

When it comes to water damage restoration, SERVPRO has built a reputation for excellence. Here are several reasons why they are the best choice for your restoration needs:

1. Rapid Response Time

When you’re dealing with water damage, every minute counts. SERVPRO understands this urgency and offers 24/7 emergency services. Their team is always ready to respond quickly, helping to minimize damage and reduce restoration costs.

2. Expertise and Experience

With years of experience in the industry, SERVPRO’s trained professionals know exactly how to handle various types of water damage. They are equipped with the latest technology and techniques to effectively manage any situation, ensuring thorough and efficient restoration.

3. Comprehensive Services

SERVPRO doesn’t just stop at water removal. Their comprehensive approach means they can handle every aspect of the restoration process—from cleanup and dehumidification to repairs and reconstruction. This one-stop service reduces the stress and hassle for homeowners.

4. Advanced Equipment

SERVPRO utilizes state-of-the-art equipment designed to detect moisture and remove it effectively. Their industrial-grade tools ensure that your property is thoroughly dried and restored, preventing future issues like mold growth.

5. Insurance Coordination

Navigating insurance claims can be daunting, especially during a crisis. SERVPRO can assist with this process, working directly with your insurance company to ensure you receive the coverage you deserve.

6. Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

Customer service is a cornerstone of SERVPRO’s mission. Their team is dedicated to providing exceptional service and support throughout the restoration process. They take the time to communicate with you, ensuring you’re informed every step of the way.

7. Local Knowledge and Community Support

As a trusted name in water damage restoration,  SERVPRO franchises are locally owned and operated. This means they understand the unique challenges faced by homeowners in their community and are committed to helping their neighbors recover quickly and effectively.

Final Thoughts

Water damage can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Choosing SERVPRO for your water damage restoration needs ensures that you’re getting a team of dedicated professionals ready to restore your property swiftly and effectively. Their commitment to excellence, advanced techniques, and compassionate customer service make them the best choice when disaster strikes.

If you find yourself in a water emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 304-755-9510. Our team is ready to help you get back on your feet and restore your home to its former glory. Remember, with SERVPRO, you’re not just restoring your property; you’re also restoring your peace of mind.

Four P's in Pot

10/18/2023 (Permalink)

First Call Plumber! Second Call SERVPRO!

We are all guilty of flushing things down the toilet that do not belong. Whether it’s baby wipes or your kid seeing how many tissues they can fit into the toilet bowl, we have all seen the ups and downs of a toilet clog. It is encouraged that people stick to the “Four P’s” when it comes to what gets flushed: pee, poop, puke, and (toilet) paper. That leaves a lot of room for all of the things that do not belong in your Jon. Here’s a handy list of some things that could potentially clog your sewer pipes in your home or business…

1. Feminine products
2. Baby wipes—yes, even the ones they say are flushable.
3. Cooking grease/food
4. Dental floss
5. Q-Tips
6. Cotton balls
7. Pills – (also a potential environmental problem)
8. Tissues
9. Paper towels
10. Cigarette butts (Ha, Ha, we said butt)

Now that we have covered what not to flush… take a look at some of the odd things people have sent through the pipes…

1. Civil War Cannon Shell
2. A Training bra
3. A $70,000 diamond ring
4. False teeth
5. Money
6. Cell phones
7. A squirrel
8. Family pictures
9. A bag of sea shells
10. A wig

Check out this article at https://www.charmin.com/en-us/tips-and-articles/poop-puns-toilet-humor… just for poops & giggles

Identifying Types of Water

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

Carpet wet from water getting inside the house

When water damage occurs SERVPRO has three categories of water. The three types of water are clean, gray, and black. We determine the classification of the water during the inspection of your property. What are the differences between the categories?

1. Clean water

  Clean water is water that has never been contaminated. Clean water typically comes from a hot water tank or appliances. Clean water is not an immediate threat to your health. Clean water is generally safe for you to do some fast water removing methods such as mopping up water or using towels to clean up.

2. Gray water

   Gray water is contaminated wastewater. Gray water usually comes from bathtubs, showers, washing machines, dishwashers, or sinks. Wear protective gear such as rubber gloves and boots when cleaning up gray water. Keep children and pets away from the flooded area. Clean-up must begin immediately; gray water can turn to black water in as little as 48 hours.

3. Black water

    Black water is highly contaminated water. Black water comes from storm flooding, flushing toilets, and sewage is considered black water. This can be dangerous being in contact with. If you do experience black water stay away from flooded areas.

If you, unfortunately, experience any of these types of water types we at SERVPRO of North Kanawha and Teays Valley are here to help. Our teams are highly trained in water restoration and how to properly clean all types of water.

Water Restoration Steps

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Small red house in a water puddle.

If you have water damage to your property SERVPRO of North Kanawha and Teays Valley are here to help. When water has entered your home, we understand the emotions that come along with this crisis. Here are the steps to our water restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact

The restoration process starts when you give us a call. We will guide you through the crisis and may ask you many questions to determine what equipment and resources are needed.

2. Inspection and Water Damage Assessment:

This stage of the process is where we determine the extent of your water damage. Our team checks to see how far the moisture has traveled.

3. Water Extraction

The removal process begins almost immediately. We use pumps and vacuum units to remove the water from your property helping to prevent any further damage such as mold growth.

4. Drying and Dehumidification

We use specialized equipment to remove any water that was harder to access. Our team will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine how many air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to dry your home or business.

5. Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all the restorable structures and items that were damaged by the water. Our team is trained to sanitize and deodorize your property.

6. Restoration

This is the stage where we return your home or business back to pre-water damage condition. This may involve replacing drywall and installing new carpets, or larger repairs such as the reconstruction of different areas or rooms on the property.

Avoiding Water Damage While Away

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

pipe with water leaking out

Summer months are here, and for most people, that means a trip to the beach. Packing the family and ensuring you have everything you will need can be stressful, and while we don’t want to add any more to your plate it may be good in the long run. If you are leaving your house unattended while away, it may be smart to turn off your water. Burst pipes can happen at any time, and there are multiple causes to them. Burst pipes can be caused by aging, corrosion, clogs, and more. Here is how to turn off your water: 

1. Always hand-turn your valves. If you are unable to turn the valves on or off, it’s best to call a plumber. 
2. If you have a gate or “wheel” valve to shut it off, you will need to turn it clockwise.
3. If you have a ball valve turn it perpendicular to the pipe. 

         It’s a time to relax, and not have to stress about your house while you’re gone. You went to the beach to see the ocean; you don’t want to come home and see it. If water damage does occur, we are always ready to help. 

Uh oh...I see water damage!

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

If you suspect water damage, call the pros.

Spring and summer time in Kanawha and Putnam Counties means lots, and lots, and lots of rain. Anyone that has lived in West Virginia knows that spring time here is that time of year when the weather can be completely unpredictable- sunny one day and thunderstorms the next. This also means that you could have water coming into your home during times of heavy rain, and not be prepared. Some signs that you have water damage in your home are:

-Dark or wet spots on the ceiling and interior/exterior walls. These watermarks indicate a leak.

-Cracking, bubbling, or flaking in the drywall or paint on your ceiling or walls. 

-Leaks can cause pools of water to collect on the floor. If you dry the puddle up, and it comes back, you have a leak!

-Musty smell. Any type of damp or moldy smell is an indicator of water damage in your home. 

A leak is not always caused by heavy rain. A faucet leak inside your home can also occur, and can usually be detected by monitoring your water bill and listening for dripping sounds.

If you suspect water damage in your home, call the pros. SERVPRO of North Kanawha Valley and Teays Valley is always "Here to Help".

Raise the Roof

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

Leaky roof...now what?

“The other night I walked into my sunroom and stepped onto wet tile. I thought “great, what now?”. So, I turn the light on and look around to see what could have caused the puddle. Of course it’s raining, so I look up to see if it’s a roof leak. It is. Awesome, just one more thing to add to the list. See, we’re in the middle of renovating a bathroom and building a fence around our property, so to have something else to deal with just added to the headache. But, it has to be taken care of. Working at SERVPRO, I know how expensive a small leak like that can become and I want to avoid any damage to my home. So, what do you do when something like this happens to you during this very rainy season? Here’s a brief run-down on what to do when your roof springs a leak:

First things first, you need to stop the water damage. Cover any contents in that room that would be damaged by the water with plastic. You will also want to put a bucket under the leak immediately to catch the water and prevent it from pooling and causing damage to the floor. Dry the floor with towels and set a fan up to insure it gets completely dry. If you catch the leak quickly and there is minimal damage, you are probably in the clear other than, of course, getting your roof fixed or fixing it yourself if you know how. Obviously, if you feel that your home has sustained significant water damage that you can not take care of on your own, call us to come give you an estimate. Our phone lines work 24/7/365 and we are always available to help. We work with all major insurance companies and can get you and your home taken care of!”

-Sarah King, Business Development Coordinator

Spring Showers

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

If the Spring showers dampen your day, you know who to call!

Spring and Summer are full of sunshine, flowers, and fresh-cut grass. However, it can also bring on unexpected periods of heavy rains. Unfortunately, this can lead to major water damage to homes in Kanawha & Putnam Counties which means wet basements and backed up drains.

Always ensure that you keep an eye on the weather and watch for any heavy rainfall warnings that could result in water damages in your area. When a warning is given, make sure to keep all basement windows and doors closed and be sure they are properly sealed. Keep an eye on the basement to catch if there are any leaks that water may be coming in from.

SERVPRO® of North Kanawha & Teays valley is your leading restoration company when it comes to water damage in West Virginia. If you experience any water intrusion, make sure to call us right away. We have highly trained and certified teams on standby, 24/7/365.

If you are unfortunate enough to experience some sort of water damage to your home, we will be there as quickly as possible to extract the water. Not only will remove all the water, but we will clean all affected areas with anti-microbial to ensure that the area is thoroughly disinfected. We will also take care of any belongings that were affected by water, whether that be to clean and sanitize the item, or haul it away to be discarded.

We hope that you stay dry this Spring and Summer season, but if you don’t, you know who to call. SERVPRO® of North Kanawha Valley & Teays Valley is always Here to Help®!

Stop the freeze!

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes burst and caused water damage? Give us a call. We're always here to help.

Burst water pipes are the leading cause of property damage during cold months. The reason for this is that these pipes that supply our homes with fresh running water are usually made of soft copper or PVC and are extremely vulnerable to freezing conditions. Pair this with pipes in an unheated area such us a crawl space or attic and you’ve got yourself the perfect situation for frozen pipes. And if you thought the only inconvenience of a frozen pipe is the lack of running water, you are wrong. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and causes pressure to build between the blockage and the closed faucet. This can cause the line to rupture and flood your home.

Let’s talk about the best ways to protect your water pipes from freezing so that you can protect your home from unexpected water damage and expensive repairs:

• Insulating your pipes can be a cheap and easy way to keep your pipes from freezing
• Keep your garage doors shut if you have water lines running through your garage
• If you plan to be away from home for an extended period of time, leave the heat on and set the temperature to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit
• On days that will be exceptionally frigid, let water drip from the faucets. Running water helps to keep the pipes from freezing

Mother Nature has a great way of attacking us when we’re most vulnerable and unsuspecting. If you ended up with burst pipes after this last cold-front, we’re here to help.

Cleaning Your Gutters

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

Clean gutters are not hard to achieve. All you need is a sturdy ladder and a gutter scoop!

Homeownership comes with a lot of responsibility. There is a lot of regular maintenance that needs to be done that you don't think about when you rent, like keeping your gutters clean. Having your gutters cleaned on a regular basis is necessary for many reasons, the most important being that clogged gutters will eventually cause water damage to your home. We know how much rain we get here in Kanawha and Putnam Counties. In the springtime it almost feels like it rains for days without stopping. If your gutters are clogged, they will cause rainwater to overflow and damage your roof which means...leaking. 

The easiest way to clean your gutters on a regular basis is to use a gutter scoops to remove all of that nasty gunk from the gutter. You will need a sturdy ladder placed on a level surface. After all of the debris is removed, you can use a garden hose to flush the gutters and downspouts. Doing this will also allow you to see if you have any existing leaks that need addressed. 

That's all there is to it. And now that you know how easy it is, there's no reason to put it off any longer. Go clean those gutters!

Do you know where your main water shut-off valve is?

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

This is an example of an indoor main water shut off valve at a Charleston business that we completed an Emergency Ready Profile for.

There are a few things every homeowner needs to know about their home. One of the most important of these is where the main water shut-off valve is, and how to turn it off. Every home is required to have one installed inside the home and turning this valve off is crucial during certain emergency situations. 

First, you need to locate your main water valve. The best place to look is inside your home on the perimeter of the house facing the street. The water main is typically in the street and goes in a straight line to your house. There are two types of shut-off valves: it will either look like a handle that can only move in one direction or a knob that you have to turn several times to fully shut the water off. If you can not find the valve inside your home, there could be another located near the street or sidewalk. You may have to call the water company for them to shut it off. 

Any time you go out of town, you should shut off the main water valve as a preventative measure. Nothing is worse than returning home from vacation to a faucet that had been leaking the hole time you were gone and has now damaged your home. You will also want to shut the water off if there is a busted pipe or something leaking that requires attention. This will help lessen the damage to your property. 

Of course, if you forgot to turn your water off before your week long trip to the beach and come back to a bathroom full of water from a leaking faucet, don't fret. Just give us a call at 304-755-9510 and we will get you taken care of!

We're fast, but why?

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

We pride ourselves in being "faster to any size disaster"!

As most of you know, our tag line "faster to any size disaster" is one we live by and deliver on daily. But why is that? Why is it so imperative to arrive on the scene of a job, more specifically a water loss, as quickly as possible? Aside from convenience for the property owners, there is  scientific reasoning for being on the scene of a water damaged property as quickly as possible. The water damage timeline breaks down the "why" for being "faster to any size disaster":

Within minutes, water spreads throughout the property while saturating everything in the way. In the first 24 hours, the drywall begins to swell and break down, metal begins to tarnish, furniture swells and cracks, and a musty odor begins due to bacteria growth. From the second day into the first week, mold and mildew starts to grow, wall studs swell and warp, wood flooring begins to warp, biohazard contamination is a possibility, and paint begins to blister. If water is left in a home untouched for more than a week, restoration time and cost increase dramatically due to the exponential damages. The structural safety of the home as well as the mold growth and biohazard contamination poses serious risk to the inhabitants. 

Because of this timeline and the science behind it, we strive to arrive on scene quickly and efficiently. Our crews are highly trained professionals working around the clock to ensure immediate response to water damage emergencies. 

Music, Sweet Music

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Listen to the sweet sound of music while you read about how we can help in your time of need.

As you read this blog, please click on the links for your listening pleasure.

"I Love A Rainy Night" , but I don’t like it when those "Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head" so much that it causes water intrusion into my crawlspace or basement. "Have You Ever Seen The Rain" fall so hard that you feel your house and all its belongings may end up "Down By The River" ? We all know that "A Hard Rains A-Gonna Fall Sometime" and we are going to have to deal with high "Water" . Numerous places in West Virginia experience flooding issues almost every time the "Rain" falls hard and the "Ripple" effect can be devastating.

That’s where SERVPRO comes in. We are experts in restoring your property after "The River" or water from a hard rain enters your home or business. SERVPRO Technicians have the equipment and training to tackle any sized disaster and make it "Like it never even happened." "When The Levee Breaks" "Once In A Lifetime" , or its just "Another Rainy Night In Georgia" we can handle your emergency.

Whether the water comes from a "Big River" , "The Ocean" , "Cool Water" , "Cold Water" , the "Yellow River" , The "Kern River" , "Fire Lake" , "Black Water" , or "Purple Rain" , We can make it all like it’s just "Water Under The Bridge"

We are not saying that SERVPRO can "Walk On Water" , but we CAN restore your home or business back to preloss condition and be that "Bridge Over Troubled Water" so you can get your life back to normal after rainwater has flooded you property.

The Abominable Snowmelt

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

A close-up of a snowflake

The splendor of seasonal snowfall is a beautiful sight to see, but something sinister is sneaking behind those flakes…snowmelt. In West Virginia, dramatic temperature swings are a common occurrence. When periods of significant snowfall are amongst these weather patterns, the risk of home and property damage from snow accumulation intensifies. Snow tends to accumulate in areas that are not often impacted by rainfall which can expose vulnerabilities in roofs, walls, and foundations. When repeated instances of freeze and thaw occur, the opportunity for devastation increases dramatically. Here are a few tips that might protect your home from the Abominable Snowmelt:

• Remove snow from around your home: snow accumulation near your foundation, windows and doors can leak into your home once it starts to melt. Remember to shovel any decks, driveways or patios that slope towards your home.
• Check your roof and gutters: consider hiring a professional to remove the snow from your roof so that water run-off is at a minimum once temperatures rise. If that is not possible, be sure that your gutters are clear so that the water will have a path away from your home. If possible, attach a sloped leader to your downspout that leads run-off at least 10ft from your home.
• Test your sump pump: if water does get into your basement, you want to be sure it is taken care of quickly. Before the snow starts to melt, test your sump pump and your sump pump discharge pipe to ensure it's in working order.
• Clear snow from drainage areas: storm drains and catch basins can often get clogged with snow — if you can do so safely, clearing snow from these areas can help keep water away from your home.
• Rearrange your storage: in case water does get into your basement, be sure to keep any valuables, chemicals, or anything else you'd like to keep dry off the floor.
• Check your appliances: clear out space around your water heater, furnace and other appliances. If possible, raising your washer and dryer off the floor could help protect from water damage.
• Do not try to do too much: getting on ladders or your roof at any time of the year is a risky proposition, even more so when there is snow involved. Clearing snow and gutters is important in the prevention of water damage but be sure to use a professional to handle any dangerous situations.

Just remember, if being attacked by the Abominable Snowmelt this winter, the Heroes from SERVPRO North Kanawha and Teays Valley can save you and your home faster than you can say “Yukon Cornelius!”

Water Water Everywhere

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement

Water leaks within a home or business can seep into carpet, flooring, baseboards, and walls while moving throughout the structure.  SERVPRO of North Kanawha Valley/ Teays Valley Franchise Professionals understand how disruptive water damages can be for a family. Water leaks in a business can not only disrupt the facility, but also can interrupt day to day business functions, which could possibly close the business and affect revenues. 

Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process.  Quick response time helps ensure that damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly. This saves on the amount of damage, cost of claims, and assists in reducing losses from business interruption due to a loss.  Timely and proper water mitigation will also help keep mold from developing which could cause people to experience health effects!  SERVPRO Professionals will be able to identify water regardless of where it hides. Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals cover the Charleston, WV, and surrounding areas.  We offer 24-hour emergency response from our trained professionals to help make it "Like it never even happened."

            Leak Prevention Tips

•   Check roof for deterioration.  
•   Check gutters and downspouts.
•   Check basements and crawl spaces for moisture.
•   Check appliances in kitchens, break rooms, and cafeterias.
•   Check sinks and toilets in bathrooms.
•   Check HVAC for leaks and blockages. 

Spring has sprung!

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Spring rains often cause a tremendous amount of rain outside, which can sometimes end up inside of your home.

Spring and Summer are full of sunshine, flowers and fresh-cut grass but can also bring on unexpected periods of heavy rains. Unfortunately, this can lead to major water damage to homes in Kanawha & Putnam Counties this can lead to wet basements and backed up drains.

Always ensure that you keep an eye on the weather and watch for any heavy rainfall warnings that could result in water damages in your area. When a warning is given, make sure to keep all basement windows and doors closed and make sure they are properly sealed. Keep an eye on the basement to catch if there are any leaks that water may be coming in from.

SERVPRO® of North Kanawha & Teays valley is your leading restoration company when it comes to water damage in West Virginia. If you experience any water intrusion, make sure to call us right away. We have highly trained and certified teams on standby, 24/7 365 we are always Here to Help®.

We understand how precious your home is and we take care of it as if it was one of our own.

Whether it is sewage damage, plumbing leak, overland plumbing, window leaking, a crack in the foundation, we will always try to identify the source, and you to prevent any future water issues.

During the water remediation process, It will begin by extracting any standing water from the affected area and then we will install drying equipment to get the basement as dry as quickly as possible. Air movers and fans are put in place strategically to ensure optimal area coverage. Any contents you have in the basement, we can help move or store until your basement is restored. Our pack-out services include packing and storing your precious belongings and keeping them safe during the restoration period. Once your home is restored, we will safely bring back your items in the same condition that they were taken away in.

Not only will remove all the water but we will clean all affected areas with anti-microbial to ensure that the area is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.  Ensuring that your home has been properly dried after water damage is crucial. The secondary damage can be caused by improper drying.  Mold can grow very quickly after water damage and it is important to get the area as dry as possible. Our certified teams can handle both mold and water and we can ensure that your property is in good hands!

Do not hesitate if you have water damage to contact your local SERVPRO® for all your restoration needs.

SERVPRO® of North Kanawha & Teays Valley will handle your restoration needs from start to finish minimizing your headaches. 

We offer the highest possible standard of professionalism with the restoration, cleanup, and mitigation of your home or business.  We are a locally owned and operated West Virginia company and part of over 1700 franchises, providing our company with the ability to respond faster to any size disaster.

Contact us today!! 304-343-6170

What to expect when a water damage occurs

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

Basement full of contents that some have been saturated with category 3 water.

 What to Expect

The restoration process begins when you call us. SERVPRO® of North Kanawha and Teays Valley we are available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. Even a delay of a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO® Professionals may need to dispatch to your location. The following steps described below will help you better understand what to expect when the unexpected happens to you. 

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Upon our first initial contact with you our SERVPRO® Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

*If you have questions don’t hesitate to ask. Our employees would love to help you understand what is happening inside your home. After all, it is YOUR HOME.

Step 2: Inspection

Our Water Damage Restoration Process

When responding to a water damage emergency, we begin with a detailed inspection of your home or property, including a damage assessment. At this stage, our professionals are trying to determine the scope of the damage so that we can develop an appropriate plan of action.

Identify and Stop the Water Source

We will check for the source of moisture in your home or business. The source must be stopped before any restoration or drying of the building can be successful.

• Stop the Source
• Check for Contaminated Water

Identify the Type of Water

We will identify the category and classification of water damage to ensure our professionals restore your property based on industry guidelines. The level of contamination of the water will affect the specific restoration processes we use.

• Category 1: "Clean Water" originates from a sanitary source and poses no substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure. However, it may not always remain clean after it comes into contact with other surfaces or materials.
• Category 2: "Gray Water" contains significant contamination and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans. It may contain potentially unsafe levels of microorganisms or nutrients for microorganisms, as well as other organic or inorganic matter (chemical or biological).
• Category 3: "Black Water" is grossly contaminated and may contain pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Such water sources may carry silt, organic matter, pesticides, heavy metals, regulated materials, or toxic organic substances.

Survey the Extent of the Water Damage and Inspect the Premises

We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration. In addition, we will inspect for safety concerns that may be evident. If there are any safety issues like lead or asbestos, please bring them to our attention.

• Survey Damage
• Complete Safety Inspection

Move or Block Furniture

We move furniture and property contents and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpet.

• Block Furniture

*If you have questions don’t hesitate to ask. Our employees would love to help you understand what is happening inside your home. After all, it is YOUR HOME. 

Step 3: Water Removal

After the inspection and damage assessment step, the water extraction process begins. This step removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your property.

Move-Out / Pack-Out

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO of North Kanawha and Teays Valley can conduct an organized, efficient move-out to protect your belongings from further damage.

• Move-Out Service

Emergency Water Removal

Our highly trained technicians will begin the water removal process almost immediately. Depending on the amount of water, we may use powerful submersible pumps in addition to industrial strength, wet/dry vacuums. Removing most of the water helps reduce drying time and helps prevent secondary water damage and mold and bacterial growth.

• Remove Excess Water
• Use Submersible Pumps and Industrial Wet/Dry Vacuums

Inspect the Carpet Pad and Carpet

We inspect the carpet and pad and determine if they should be removed to protect the subfloor.

• Inspect Carpet Pad and Remove If Needed
• Inspect Carpet and Remove If Needed

Water Removal Equipment

• Moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.
• Infrared cameras may be used to find “hidden” water behind walls and ceilings.
• Submersible and gas-powered pumps are used for continuous pumping of high-level water.
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

*If you have questions don’t hesitate to ask. Our employees would love to help you understand what is happening inside your home. After all, it is YOUR HOME. 

Step 4: Drying

Once the excess water has been removed, the floors and walls may appear dry, but a quick inspection will reveal they are wet to the touch. Nearly all building materials, like wood, drywall, and flooring materials, are porous and therefore retain water. This retained water can cause the materials to break down, warp, or cause mold damage.

Drying / Dehumidification

Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers to dry your home or business. We’ll carefully monitor the progress using moisture meters until the materials return to acceptable drying goals.

• Use Dehumidification Equipment
• Use Monitoring Equipment to Track Progress

Monitor Floor and Walls

We check the moisture levels to monitor the drying process. 

• Monitor Floors
• Monitor Walls

Drying Equipment

• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers help prevent secondary water damage like swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.
• High-speed air movers create airflow across walls, carpets, pads, and furniture, which accelerates the evaporation of moisture.

*If you have questions don’t hesitate to ask. Our employees would love to help you understand what is happening inside your home. After all, it is YOUR HOME.

Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing

Your walls, flooring, and ceiling will most likely require professional cleaning services. In addition to cleaning your property’s structure, we will clean your furniture, upholstery, clothing, and other restorable belongings damaged by the water. Most flooding and water damage also require professional odor removal and deodorization since wet materials have a very distinct odor.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of North Kanawha and Teays Valley specializes in restoring contents damaged by fire, water, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. Learn more about Contents Restoration.

•  Dry Cleaning
•  Wet Cleaning
•  Spray and Wipe
•  Foam Cleaning
•  Abrasive Cleaning
•  Immersion Cleaning

Odor Removal and Deodorization

We are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. Our technical expertise and industrial-grade air scrubbers and fogging equipment go well beyond simply masking odors and other shortcuts that don’t work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.

•  Odor Removal and Deodorization
•  Air Scrubbers and Fogging Equipment

Sanitizing Treatments

Depending on the scenario, we may use antimicrobial, antibacterial, or disinfectant treatments to clean your property.

•  Antimicrobial and Antibacterial Treatments
•  Sanitizing and Disinfectant Treatments

Disposal

We will remove and dispose of damaged materials with guidance from you and your insurance adjuster.

•  Properly Dispose of Refuse

*If you have questions don’t hesitate to ask. Our employees would love to help you understand what is happening inside your home. After all, it is YOUR HOME. 

Step 6: Restoration

Restoration, the final step, is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Emergency Building Services

When your home has been damaged by a storm or water, the immediate concern may include temporary protective measures to prevent additional damages, like placing a roof tarp. Learn more about our building services.

•  Board-Up
•  Roof Tarp
•  Temporary Fencing
•  Move-Out / Pack-Out
•  Temporary Warehouse Space

Repairs and Minor Building Services

The following building and repair services may be necessary to restore your home to pre-water damage conditions. 

•  Drywall Removal and Installation
•  Hardwood Floor Repair
•  Tile Floor Repair
•  Painting
•  Carpet Repair and Installation

Building Services and Reconstruction

SERVPRO of North Kanawha and Teays Valley can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial water damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keep costs low. We can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality.

•  Reconstruction and Building Services

*If you have questions don’t hesitate to ask. Our employees would love to help you understand what is happening inside your home. After all, it is YOUR HOME. 

It's Raining, It's Pouring.................

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Recent heavy rain fall that caused homes and businesses in the Charleston and Teays Valley area to flood.

Water leaks within a home or business can seep into carpet, flooring, baseboards, and walls while moving throughout the structure.  SERVPRO of North Kanawha Valley and Teays Valley Franchise Professionals understand how disruptive water damages can be for a family. Water leaks in a business can not only disrupt the facility, but also can interrupt day to day business functions, which could possibly close the business and affect revenues. 

Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process.  Quick response time helps ensure that damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly. This saves on the amount of damage, cost of claims, and assists in reducing losses from business interruption due to a loss.  Timely and proper water mitigation will also help keep mold from developing which could cause people to become ill!  SERVPRO® Professionals will be able to identify water regardless of where it hides. Your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals cover the Charleston and Teays Valley area's as well as the surrounding areas.  We offer 24-hour emergency response from our trained professionals to help make it "Like it never even happened."

            Leak Prevention Tips

•   Check roof for deterioration.  
•   Check gutters and downspouts.
•   Check basements and crawl spaces for moisture.
•   Check appliances in kitchens, break rooms, and cafeterias.
•   Check sinks and toilets in bathrooms.
•   Check HVAC for leaks and blockages. 

Kanawha Valley’s Mightiest Heroes

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO'S mightiest Heroes are Here to Help in Charleston,WV and the surrounding area.

You experience an awakening in the middle of the night by a strange loud sound. You jump out of bed to notice you are standing on a shocking amount of saturated carpet. You have now come to the unsettling conclusion that your water heater has sprung a leak. This will undoubtedly send you into quite a fury. Fortunately, all you have to do now is make the call for SERVPRO® to assemble the crew.  Most houses are not shielded from water or fire damage, nor do they have the eye of Agamotto to reverse time. However, SERVPRO® is always here to save the day. 

            When it comes to structural damage, we may not have Stark Industries technology; but, we do have the latest “state of the art” restorative equipment that the industry offers today.  Our inventory ranges anywhere from air movers and dehumidifiers, to air scrubbers and HVAC duct cleaning machines.  Whenever Thanos snaps in your home, we can clean the thick layer of dust out of your ductwork, registers, and fog a pleasant anti-microbial deodorizer through the cold air return. You will marvel at the job we have done. SERVPRO® technicians are equipped with custom manufactured restorative products, making SERVPRO® the guardians of everything you hold dear.

            Thanks to social media, yellow pages, word of mouth, etc. it does not take an interstellar pager to contact SERVPRO®. The Avengers of all things unclean are available 24/7/365 and are faster to any sized disaster. All our technicians have been thoroughly trained and are experienced to meet all your restoration needs. SERVPRO® conveniently has over 1,700 locations so you do not have to shrink down to the quantum realm in order to find us. Next time your home or business is exposed to a disaster, call SERVPRO® of North Kanawha Valley’s Mightiest Heroes.

Extraction Sucks

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Production Team Leader Jason Vinyard extracting water in a local commercial building.

Lately we have been hearing stories of some restoration companies in our area not doing an initial extraction of standing water during a water damage.

They are telling the customer that that is what the drying equipment is for and it’s just a waste of time to suck the standing water out.

Although there are very rare cases, such as when a concrete floor has sufficient floor drains to carry off excess water where we would not have to extract, in most cases we will have to extract some water. One of the reasons I suspect that other companies do not want to do an initial extraction is cost. The drying equipment used on a water loss is usually the most expensive part of the restoration process and the longer it takes to dry the more money these said companies make. The water extraction step removes the majority of the water from your home or business. By performing a thorough water extraction, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals help reduce the drying time, thus saving you money on drying time as well as to help to prevent mold and other secondary water damage. Our highly trained technicians will begin the water removal process almost immediately upon arrival on a water loss using powerful pumps, truck-mounted vacuum units, or portable extraction machines to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from the properties we are restoring.

If you find yourself in need of a truly professional restoration company, call the professionals at SERVPRO of North Kanawha Valley. One of the reasons we are better is because we suck.

Serving those who serve

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

Thank You to our veterans and their families for the sacrifices that are made.

Every once in a while, we get the chance to run into a previous customer. This time, just so happened to be at one of our most recent continuing education classes. On this day while we were waiting for the instructor to start the second of two classes, a conversation was started about the military because several of the participants in the class were prior service veterans. Afterwards, when we were caught up in our conversations a gentleman began telling a tale about when he was called back to duty after 9/11, and how his household was hit with a catastrophe and need our assistance. Before being able to really tell his whole story the class started and cut his story short. Just the next day after returning to the office, we received and email finishing his story.

So we would like to share his story with you:

As always it was a phenomenal experience having your team provide us with our required ethics course. They represented SERVPRO extraordinarily well, much like my personal experience when I suffered a basement water loss in my own residence.

While I was retiring from an honorable career of military service, the Trade Center tragedy occurred and caused the services to reach out and return many of us back to active duty (Stop Loss). Having just retired and moved my family and belongings to our new home in Dunbar, West Virginia, I shrugged my shoulders and returned to service as ordered. No one knew when the Stop Loss would end. Two and a half years later, I was able to finally enter retirement and rejoin my family. Being away from home was what my particular service specialty became used to. Even the capability for others to help take care of my family’s needs while I’m away was something the military installations did well. In this rare Stop Loss condition, there was no one in the civilian world that we could count on, with the exception of a hand full of elderly family members.

About two or three months after leaving the family in Dunbar to once again deploy to the desert, my wife was able to contact me and our insurance agent, who recommended SERVPRO® of North Kanawha Valley and Teays Valley to remediate the flooded basement. Today we still tell everyone we know about our SERVPRO® of North Kanawha Valley and Teays Valley experience and try to provide your contact information. I was impressed, through my wife’s reports while I was deployed, that SERVPRO attacked the job like a well-oiled military machine. She explained that the entire team was friendly, supportive and they all appeared to know their roles and set out to ensure they saved our basement from further damage. One of SERVPRO’s technicians found the water heater pop off valve stuck in the drywall about eight feet away. It must have been quite the explosion by the brand new water heater that had been installed. Fortunately, no one was injured, and SERVPRO worked to get the water damage under control in just a few hours. It’s important to note that SERVPRO worked directly with our homeowner's insurance carrier to ensure our residence was once again made functional for our family to enjoy. My remaining family never had to go to a hotel or stay with another family member due to SERVPRO’s immediate responsiveness. They live up to their slogan, Like it never even happened®. You could tell their work ethic and customer centric culture means you can rely on them to walk the walk and talk the talk. The Cooper family cannot thank you enough or say enough about how satisfied we were that you had our backs!

Cooper Family

Water Water Everywhere!

2/10/2016 (Permalink)

Busness_Commercial_job

Water leaks within a home or business can seep into carpet, flooring, baseboards, and walls while moving throughout the structure.  SERVPRO of North Kanawha Valley/ Teays Valley Franchise Professionals understand how disruptive water damages can be for a family. Water leaks in a business can not only disrupt the facility, but also can interrupt day to day business functions, which could possibly close the business and affect revenues. 

Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process.  Quick response time helps ensure that damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly. This saves on the amount of damage, cost of claims, and assists in reducing losses from business interruption due to a loss.  Timely and proper water mitigation will also help keep mold from developing which could cause people to become ill!  SERVPRO Professionals will be able to identify water regardless of where it hides. Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals cover the Charleston, WV, and surrounding areas.  We offer 24-hour emergency response from our trained professionals to help make it "Like it never even happened."

            Leak Prevention Tips

•   Check roof for deterioration.  
•   Check gutters and downspouts.
•   Check basements and crawl spaces for moisture.
•   Check appliances in kitchens, break rooms, and cafeterias.
•   Check sinks and toilets in bathrooms.
•   Check HVAC for leaks and blockages. 

2015 in the Kanawha Valley

1/4/2016 (Permalink)

2015 Christmas Day Flooding

As we look back on our year at SERVPRO, we are filled with thankfulness at the year we have had.  The year started off cold and blustery. This brought with it frozen water pipes and many water damages. As we end 2015 we are surrounded by many water emergencies from the recent Christmas flooding. In between all of these water issues we have seen our share of fire and mold remediation oppertunities. We couldn’t be more thankful that it was a successful year and that we were able to help people in their time of need. We are happy to be able to stand behind our motto, “Like it Never Even Happened.” Here’s to 2016 and all that it may bring.