Water damage can pose a significant challenge for commercial property owners or managers. Immediate considerations include the health and safety of occupants, the impact of business interruption, and cost.
Various factors, such as burst pipes, flooding, or sewage backups, can cause water damage. It can result in structural issues, property damage, and disruptions to daily operations.
If water damage affects a commercial property, the choice is clear--call SERVPRO, the #1 most trusted brand for commercial restoration.
SERVPRO of Amarillo, a reliable and experienced restoration partner, has efficiently and effectively restored commercial properties to their pre-damage conditions for nearly 40 years.
24/7/365 Water Damage Response
Prompt response is critical to water damage restoration, and SERVPRO of Amarillo understands the situation's urgency.
We offer 24/7 emergency services and respond quickly to commercial properties in Amarillo and surrounding areas, including Oklahoma, New Mexico, Kansas, and Colorado.
Our rapid response team is always ready to act. They arrive on-site promptly to assess the extent of the damage and begin mitigation efforts immediately.
Commercial Water Damage Assessment
Upon arrival, our certified technicians comprehensively assess the water damage to your commercial property, using specialized equipment such as moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and hygrometers to identify all affected areas, including hidden moisture pockets behind walls, ceilings, and flooring. We develop a customized restoration plan tailored to your needs and priorities based on our thorough assessment.
Large Volume Water Extraction
The first step in the restoration process is removing standing water from your commercial property. We swiftly extract water from affected areas using powerful pumps and extraction equipment, minimizing further damage and preventing mold growth. Once the standing water is removed, we deploy industrial-grade air movers, dehumidifiers, and drying equipment to thoroughly dry and dehumidify the space, ensuring that moisture levels return to normal.
Mold Caused by Water Damage
When left untreated, water damage creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew growth, posing health risks to occupants and compromising indoor air quality. SERVPRO of Amarillo is equipped to handle mold remediation in commercial properties, employing industry-leading techniques and EPA-approved antimicrobial treatments to safely and effectively remove mold colonies and prevent regrowth. We are also a licensed Mold Remediation Contractor in Texas.
Commercial Drying and Sanitization
Once the affected areas are thoroughly dried and sanitized, our team moves on to structural repairs and restoration. Whether replacing damaged drywall, repairing flooring, or rebuilding structural elements, SERVPRO of Amarillo has the expertise and resources to restore your commercial property to its pre-damage condition. We aim to minimize downtime and disruptions to your business operations, allowing you to get back to business as usual as quickly as possible.
Content Restoration
Water damage can wreak havoc on your commercial property's contents, including furniture, equipment, documents, and inventory. SERVPRO of Amarillo offers comprehensive content cleaning and restoration services to salvage as much as possible. Using advanced techniques and specialized equipment, we carefully clean, deodorize and restore your contents to pre-damage condition whenever possible.
Commercial Property Claims
Dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task, especially in the aftermath of a water damage event. SERVPRO of Amarillo understands the insurance claims process and works closely with insurance adjusters to ensure your claim is handled smoothly and efficiently. From documenting the damage to providing detailed estimates and facilitating communication, we take the hassle out of the insurance process, allowing you to focus on running your business.
In addition to water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Amarillo offers proactive measures to help commercial properties mitigate the risk of future water damage. Prevention includes routine maintenance, inspection services, and recommendations for preventative measures such as installing sump pumps, sealing cracks and leaks, and implementing moisture detection systems.
Capability for the Largest Disasters Water Damages
SERVPRO of Amarillo is a member of SERVPRO's National Disaster Response Team, a vetted and elite group of franchise owners with the experience and capability to restore the nation's largest water damage restoration projects. We have the quality and quantity of certified managers, technicians, and large-format equipment to get the job done right.
Voted #1 Most Trusted Water Damage Restoration Company
With our prompt response, thorough assessment, comprehensive restoration services, and expert coordination with insurance, we'll guide you through every step of the restoration process, ensuring that your property is restored to its pre-damage condition quickly and efficiently.
Don't let water damage disrupt your business. Contact SERVPRO of Amarillo. We're Here to Help.
SERVPRO is the nation's #1 most trusted commercial damage restoration company. Call us for 24-hour water damage restoration.
Amarillo is prone to flash flooding due to its flat terrain. Due to our location in the High Plains of the Panhandle region, our rainfall runoff has little opportunity for absorption, which leads to floods.
Flash flooding can cause a variety of damage, including:
- Business Interruption
- Structural damage to buildings
- Damage to interior fixtures, furniture, and equipment
- Destruction of stored merchandise or products
- Loss of electrical systems due to water damage
- Flooding of basements and underground floors leading to potential mold growth
- Damage from floating debris during flooding
With these risks in mind, it is essential that our Amarillo neighbors are aware of their local flood risks and be prepared with professional water damage restoration services when needed.
Business Interruption after Water Damage
Business interruption disrupts normal operations due to unforeseeable circumstances, such as natural disasters like flash flooding. When businesses experience water damage, it can lead to a significant loss of revenue due to the inability to operate as usual.
The effects of business interruption can be long-lasting, causing damage to a company's reputation and reducing employee morale. In some cases, businesses may have to close their operations permanently, leading to job losses and financial strain on owners.
To mitigate these risks, business owners should have the plan to deal with potential disasters, including water damage restoration services. By having a comprehensive program that includes business interruption insurance and a partnership with a trusted restoration company, businesses can reduce the impact of unforeseeable events and quickly return to normal operations.
Professional water damage restoration services can help businesses to speed up their recovery time and minimize the negative impact of flood damage. It's always a good idea to partner with a local water damage restoration company you can trust to get your business back up and running as quickly as possible.
Choosing the right water damage restoration company is crucial to restoring your property to its pre-flood condition as quickly and efficiently as possible. Here are some essential factors to consider when choosing a water damage restoration company:
1. Certification and Licensing:
The company you choose should be certified and licensed by the appropriate authorities, like the IICRC. Certifications ensure they have the necessary training and experience to handle water damage restoration effectively. While on-the-job training and experience are essential, you want to avoid running the risk of all new technicians training on your damage.
2. Response Time:
In situations involving water damage restoration, time is of the essence. A good restoration company should be able to respond to your emergency within a few hours, ideally less than two. Delaying the response could lead to further damage and pose a risk to your health and safety.
3. Availability of Equipment:
A reputable water damage restoration company should have access to the latest equipment and technology to help them deal with any water damage emergency, including water extraction, dehumidification, and drying. When choosing a water damage restoration company, ask them about quantity and ability. If you have a large commercial property, you must ensure the company you work with has the right amount and capacity equipment to dry it properly.
4. Expertise:
Water damage restoration can be a complex process, and not all companies have the same level of expertise. Be sure to choose a company with a long proven track record and positive reputation. Many restoration companies are also cleaning companies, so when you look at their public reviews, ensure they are about large water restoration jobs rather than simple cleanings.
5. Insurance:
You will likely have to file an insurance claim to restore your property after water damage. When choosing the best restoration company, ensure the company has the experience and trained personnel on staff that can and will know how to work with your insurance adjuster to manage your claim. Ask for proof of pre-existing relationships and agreements with major insurance carriers.
Likewise, a reliable water damage restoration company should hold adequate liability and workers' compensation insurance. Insurance coverage protects your property from any damage during the restoration process and ensures that no one has you liable in case of any accidents.
6. Customer Service:
Excellent customer service is paramount when choosing a water damage restoration company. The company should have a team of friendly and knowledgeable professionals who are readily available to assist you at any time, answer any questions you have, and provide regular updates on the progress of the restoration work. Ask your water restoration company to explain their process to you. Their answer should be clear and easy to understand.
Structural Damage to Buildings After Water Damage
Flash flooding can wreak havoc on buildings, resulting in compromised structural integrity. Flooding could lead to significant damage or collapse of the entire structure.
If the building you are in has been damaged by water and you suspect the structural integrity has been compromised, leave the building immediately. A professional water restoration company should be able to work with a structural engineer to assess your building's safety before anyone else enters the building.
Water Damage to Interior Fixtures, Furniture, and Equipment
Floodwaters could get inside a building, causing significant destruction to its interior fixtures, furniture, and equipment. Damaged electrical items should be left alone until a professional restoration company can assess the damage.
Experienced water damage restoration companies can assess the damage to the item and either restore it or work with an insurance adjuster to claim it as lost so that it can be replaced.
Destruction of Stored Merchandise or Products
Retail stores and warehouses could suffer significant losses when their stock gets destroyed during a flood. The loss could be even higher when perishable items such as food and drinks are involved.
A knowledgeable damage restoration company should help you assess what stock is unaffected and help you salvage it by quickly mitigating further damage.
In commercial kitchens floodwaters could seep into commercial kitchens and contaminate the food items prepared there, leading to public health hazards.
Loss of Electrical Systems due to Water Damage
Water conducts electricity, and when it gets into contact with electrical systems, it could cause electrical shorts, leading to the loss of power supply and potential electrical fires.
Only handle affected electrical equipment once a licensed electrician has checked the system.
Flooding of Basements and Potential Mold Growth
Water in basements and underground floors could lead to damp conditions that favor mold growth. Your water restoration company should have a process to complete thorough inspections to verify they know and have a drying plan for every affected part of your property.
Damage from Storm Debris
Flash floods could result in floating debris that can damage structures and harm people. The waste could include tree trunks, rocks, and other heavy objects.
Along with restoring the interior of your property, an experienced restoration company will also be able to clean your exterior and make it possible and safe to enter your building.
Filing a Water Damage Insurance Claim
You will likely seek insurance coverage for potential losses resulting from flood damage.
Filing a water damage insurance claim can be a complex and time-consuming process, but ensuring that you receive adequate compensation for any losses is crucial. With the potential for extensive property damage, it is essential to know how to navigate the claims process to get your business back on track as quickly and efficiently as possible.
To file a successful claim, you need to take specific steps.
First, document the damage by taking pictures and videos of the affected areas. A professional restoration company will be able to do this for you, and they will have software to document and list damaged items professionally and estimate replacement or repair costs. They should notify your insurance company immediately and provide them with all relevant documentation.
While dealing with the claims process, it is essential to remain patient and persistent. The right restoration company will have a dedicated person assigned to help you with this specific task, and they will contact your adjuster nearly daily. This person is responsible for improving your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve and returning to normalcy sooner.
SERVPRO is the #1 Most Trusted Brand
If you're looking for a reliable and experienced water damage restoration company in the Amarillo area, SERVPRO of Amarillo stands out. Here's why:
1. Quick Response Time: In the event of water damage, time is of the essence. The longer you wait to address the problem, the more extensive the damage becomes. SERVPRO of Amarillo has a 24/7 emergency response team that can quickly arrive at your location and begin the restoration process ASAP. We come with trained technicians and professional equipment, ready to work.
2. Experienced and Trained Professionals: Our team comprises highly skilled and experienced technicians trained to handle any water damage situation. Our team is IICRC certified, and each technician graduated from SERVPRO University. SERVPRO of Amarillo uses state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to restore your property to its pre-damaged state effectively. We have thousands of pieces of equipment to handle any size of water damage. SERVPRO has over 50 years of experience, and SERVPRO of Amarillo is owned and operated by one of the longest-tenured franchisees in the nation.
3. Comprehensive Services: Besides water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Amarillo offers services to help restore your property to normal after a disaster. These services include construction services, mold remediation, fire damage restoration, and more. Our office also offers free disaster planning, where we visit our client's properties and pre-plan a restoration guide to help avoid business interruption. We are a licensed Texas Mold Remediation Contractor with the most mold-certified staff in the Panhandle.
4. Insurance Assistance: Dealing with insurance companies can be a hassle during a water damage emergency. Our team can work directly with your insurance provider to help expedite the claims process and ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Each of our customers is assigned a dedicated Project Coordinator to process our client's insurance claims and work with insurance adjusters to restore properties to preloss condition.
5. Customer Satisfaction: At SERVPRO of Amarillo, we are committed to customer satisfaction. We strive to make the restoration process as stress-free as possible for our clients and work hard to ensure they are delighted with our work.
Choose SERVPRO of Amarillo for reliable and effective restoration services that other Amarillo business owners also trust.
Amarillo water damage restoration professionals can restore your items that have been damaged, besides removing the smoke smell and soot.
Most people do not think about water damage in their house until the walls get moldy or water marks appear on the ceiling. However, it is vitally important to know when to call a water restoration company.
Bottom line, you should do it as soon as you notice signs of water damage. There could already be extensive unseen damage behind walls or under floors that require expensive repairs for damage that could have been prevented if detected early.
When Should You Call a Water Restoration Company?
There is a wide range of potentially hazardous situations that may require assistance from a trusted restoration team. For example, your home could suffer damage in a disaster like a flood, storm, or burst pipe. Or you may want to put your home on the market and remove signs of water damage.
Unsure if it is the right time to make a call? Suppose you notice severe problems in your house or experience a water event. In that case, you should always call a disaster restoration company.
Call a water restoration company after a major storm
Severe weather conditions like floods can result in adverse damages to your home. Small water leaks can grow into big problems, particularly mold growth if left unattended. Whenever you experience such a scenario, call your restoration company immediately as a preventative measure.
Call SERVPRO of Amarillo for water damage restoration
Water damage can cause a range of severe issues in your home. For example, many building materials act like sponges, soaking up enough water in minutes, taking weeks to dry out. As a result, harmful moisture levels can reach the building’s innermost structure, causing destruction, mold growth, and fungi.
The longer you wait to call a restoration company, the pricier the problem becomes for you and your family to fix.
Call water restoration experts after a fire
Fire can be devastating as it can destroy your property. You usually end up losing valuable items and memories. In addition, soot damaged walls and other things that the flames didn’t touch.
Professionals can restore damaged belongings and remove all traces of soot and the smell of smoke.
When selling or buying a new home
Before selling, homeowners who want to sell their homes should check for significant water damage issues. It is also advisable for homebuyers to call a local restoration company to inspect the property before buying it thoroughly.
Advantages of Calling a Disaster Restoration Company
The most significant advantage of calling a disaster restoration company is that you can avoid potentially expensive repairs down the road. In addition, a team of water damage restoration experts can sanitize contaminated surfaces, avoid mold growth, and salvage many items that may appear destroyed.
SERVPRO of Amarillo is Here to Help
If you want to restore your home after a disaster, worry no more. Whether the house damage is partial or the entire house, you can count on the services of SERVPRO of Amarillo.
Amarillo water damage restoration professionals can restore your items that have been damaged, besides removing the smoke smell and soot.
Humidifiers can increase the humidity in one’s home and business. As a result, you are providing the perfect environment for the development of mold. But this doesn’t mean you should stop using your humidifier altogether. You just need to learn how to properly use it so that spores don’t grow as fast, thus making it easier for Amarillo mold remediation services to restore your property.
What are Humidifiers?
As their name suggests, humidifiers are devices used to increase humidity in the air by releasing steam. Different types of humidifiers exist on the market, each of which is designed to fulfill specific health purposes.
How Do You Prevent Mold Growth With a Humidifier?
The best way to prevent mold with a humidifier is to just simply perform the right maintenance. Doing so will ensure that you can increase your property’s interior humidity while discouraging mold growth.
The below guide is recommended when using and cleaning your humidifier.
Change Your Humidifier Water Frequently
Deposits can form in the basin of your humidifier. As a result, these deposits can provide the minerals needed for mold spores to grow. So, it’s highly recommended that you change the water often on a daily basis if possible.
Use Distilled Water Instead of Tap Water
Just using tap water can promote bacterial development, as such water contains mold growth assisting minerals.
With distilled water, which contains lower mineral content, you can reduce the likelihood of mold growth significantly. You can also lower the chances of mold growth by relying on demineralization cartridges or filters.
Clean Your Humidifier Regularly
To prevent mold growth when using a humidifier, it’s best to clean the humidifier every three days. When cleaning your humidifier, remove the mineral deposits from the basin with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution which you can find at most pharmacies.
If you happen to have your manufacturer’s notes handy, read the section concerning cleaning and maintenance. The notes may recommend using specific disinfectants instead of hydrogen peroxide.
What if I Have an Older Model?
If the humidifier you currently own is an older or outdated model, you should consider replacing it. With an older model, it can accumulate deposits that will become difficult to remove. Remember, it is these deposits that are primarily responsible for mold growth when using a humidifier.
In need of Amarillo Mold Remediation? Trust SERVPRO
Thanks to our 35+ years of experience, we feel more than confident that we can provide you with the Amarillo mold remediation you need.
If you are in need of our services, you can call us at (806) 331-4555 or visit our contact page for help asap.
Most Common Problems Homeowners Face After a Storm
While taking safety precautions before a storm hits can help mitigate some of the loss, you can never completely eliminate the risk of storm damage.
Tornadoes and severe storms have become common across the Texas panhandle, causing severe damage to homes and buildings. While taking safety precautions before a storm hits can help mitigate some of the loss, you can never completely eliminate the risk of storm damage.
If your home has recently sustained damage, you will likely face the following common problems after a storm. Be sure to contact a professional from SERVPRO who can help you with Amarillo Water Damage Restoration.
Water Leaks
Hail Storms and hurricanes often leave homes broken and leaking in their wake. Moreover, prolonged heavy rains, hail, and strong winds can stress the water and sewage lines and even break them.
So, make sure that you check all your lines (especially outdoor lines) after the storm to spot any damage. The best way to detect a leak is by turning off all your home's taps and checking the water meter. Since no water is running around the house, the meter should also stop working.
However, a rise in the measurements indicates that you have a leak somewhere. It's best to leave the repairs to a professional who can inspect and fix the problem ASAP.
Slow Toilet Drain
Persistent rain can cause clogs in the sewer line. This can even lead to flooding in the lines, affecting the toilet drains in your home. The water can rise out of your toilets if the sewer lines get too full.
You will face this issue until the rain stops and the sewer drains appropriately. However, if your toilet drain remains slow even after the rain stops, you must call a professional.
Roof and Structural Damage
No matter how short lived, storms can damage the roof and structure of the house. The roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of the house during storms and will likely sustain the most impact.
High winds can severely compromise the integrity of the shingles installed on your roof. When these shingles break loose, your roof will start to leak, leading to further problems. Also, ice dams are common in winter storms and freezing weather. These ice dams can trap water between the roofs and form layers of ice.
Additionally, hail storms can cause damage to your roof. Unfortunately, this damage won't be visible all the time, so you might have to call for a professional if your roof starts to leak. However, some visible signs can be cracked or dents in shingles, bent roof vents, and pipes.
Furthermore, storms are known to cause flooding, leading to severe risks to your home's structure. The flood can shake the base of your support beam, and your home's foundation can be overwhelmed. If this happens, you need to immediately call for a professional disaster repair team if you experience flooding in your house.
Contamination
Besides damaging the structure of your house, floods can also cause contamination, putting your home at risk of mold growth. Carpeting can also absorb contaminated water and leave behind an awful smell.
Hire SERVPRO Experts to Restore Your Home After Storm Damage
Once the storm is over, let SERVPRO assist you in restoring the home to its original form. You can call us at our Amarillo franchise phone (806) 331-4555 to book our expert technicians today.
How to Remove Musty Smells from Carpets after Water Damage
Water damage can severely impact your property’s structure. But besides a damaged structure, other valuables in your property, like carpets, can also be impacted.
When water attacks your carpets, you can always rely on SERVPRO’s Amarillo water damage restoration services. But before we remove musty smells from the carpets after water damage, it’s important you follow the below tips to ensure you can save them.
Make Sure the Area is Dry
After flood waters have receded or plumbing leaks have been fixed, the first thing you need to do is dry the carpets. When drying the area, open your windows and use fans if necessary. If you have a dehumidifier, this device will help you out a lot.
If there is severe water damage, don’t attempt to dry the area yourself. Instead, call for professional Amarillo water damage restoration services.
Vacuum the Area
If you’re able to get the water drained and the area is dry, vacuum the carpet. Vacuuming the carpet will remove any lingering dust, which will help the odors dissipate faster.
A large vacuum is recommended for this job.
What if These Tips Don’t Work?
Regardless of whether the above tips help or not, you should always contact a professional after water damage. SERVPRO’s experts in Amarillo water damage restoration will help ensure that the musty smell that’s been lingering in your carpets will be gone for good.
How do SERVPRO Professionals Remove Musty Odor?
Each service provider is different when it comes to removing musty odors. But for us here at SERVPRO, we rely on a meticulous process for all our services, even as something as simple as odor removal.
Inspection and Assessment
When we arrive at your home or business, the first thing we will always do is inspect and assess the damage. By doing so, we get an idea of the type of work we should perform to get the job done correctly and efficiently.
Also, our inspection allows us to see if any other sort of damage is present, such as mold growth. If other types of damage are present, we will deploy more robust Amarillo water damage restoration services.
Water Removal
If your carpets still give off a musty odor, even after all you’ve done, there’s still a chance that water lies deep beneath their surfaces.
After inspection, we will utilize our powerful pumps and vacuums to ensure all moisture is completely removed.
Restoration
After water removal is complete, we will restore your carpets to a pristine, odor-free condition.
Need Help Removing Musty Carpet Odors? Call SERVPRO
For 35+ years, SERVPRO has been trusted for its Amarillo water damage restoration services. When you need help removing odors, you can count on us for our expertise.
Your air ducts are what allow the passage of cool and warm air throughout your building. When there’s mold in the air ducts, it can block the airflow, resulting in an uncomfortable indoor climate.
But there’s no need to worry. If you’re not entirely sure what to do with mold in your air ducts, then continue reading.
How to Know if There’s Mold in Your Air Ducts
It can be difficult to tell if there’s mold in your air ducts. But a couple of common indicators include:
Musty Odor
Mold gives off a strong, musty odor. If you notice this smell in your air ducts, it’s likely that you have some mold growing in them.
This smell may not be noticeable at first. You may only notice it in a certain room of your building. Eventually, if the smell has gone unnoticed for too long, the mold can spread throughout the rest of the HVAC system and cause musty odors in the entire building.
Visible Mold
Oftentimes, the mold is clearly present based on sight alone. When mold lingers in your air ducts for too long, it will accumulate enough to a point where it’s obvious.
What Do I Do About the Mold?
The first thing you should do is make sure nobody in your building is in the same room as the mold. Keep the area clear at all times until it’s handled appropriately.
Next, it’s important you don’t try to tackle the mold by yourself. Mold is a difficult substance to handle and trying to remove it could damage your air ducts further. Instead, call for a local professional who offers Amarillo mold remediation.
Why Call a Local Professional?
Amarillo mold remediation specialists are trained to take care of the issue before it develops into something more severe. They have the expertise to carefully approach the problem and ensure no harm is brought further to your property and its occupants.
Apart from their special training, Amarillo mold remediation specialists also carry state-of-the-art equipment. With the right devices, they’ll be able to extract the mold while also ensuring that future development is inhibited.
SERVPRO can Remove the Mold in Your Air Ducts
If you find yourself in need of a local expert, look no further than to SERVPRO for our Amarillo mold remediation services. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your air ducts are mold-free, allowing you to maintain a comfortable indoor environment.
Leaks, when not addressed promptly, can cost you a lot of money in repairs.
Your property will always be a big investment. And in order to secure your investment, you’ll need to ensure your property is maintained accordingly. As such, you’ll want to keep an eye out for any issues that may lower the property’s value, especially when it comes to water leakage and plumbing issues.
Leaks, when not addressed promptly, can cost you a lot of money in repairs. But with our guidance, we’ll help you save time and money preventing water leakage before it happens.
How to Spot Leaks
Some ways to spot leaks on your property include checking your water meter as well as keeping a close eye on your winter water usage.
Check your water meter, stop using your water for two hours, then check it again. If your meter does not read the same, you probably have a leak. Also, If your water use exceeds 12,000 gallons per month during winter, you might have a leak.
Saving Time and Money Preventing Leaks
According to the EPA, you can save a lot more money in the long run if you tackle your leaks as soon as they happen. Fixture replacements don’t usually cost a lot of money, so it’s the better investment route to take.
While it’s cost-effective to hire SERVPRO’s Amarillo water damage restoration services, you can save much more if you detect your leaks early and fix them.
Make the right financial choice and buy the parts and tools you need to stop your leaks.
Water Damage from Plumbing Leaks? Call SERVPRO ASAP
Leaks can cause a wide array of problems. If your leaks have become a bigger problem than you originally thought and you can’t fix them yourself, don’t hesitate at all in contacting SERVPRO of Amarillo.
To learn more about our Amarillo water damage restoration services, call us at (806) 331-4555. Or fill out our online form.
Do You Have to Disconnect the Water Hose in Winter?
Keeping your hose connected during winter can cause many issues for you as a homeowner.
The short answer is yes, it’s highly recommended that you disconnect your water hose during winter.
Keeping your hose connected during winter can cause many issues for you as a homeowner. Chief amongst these problems includes water damage due to cold temperatures outside.
Below is further information regarding why you should always disconnect your water hose during winter.
Why Should You Disconnect Your Garden Hose?
More than 10,000 gallons of water is wasted every year due to an average household’s leaks. Usually, a connected water hose the homeowners have forgotten about is the culprit behind this significant amount of water loss.
If you forget or simply decide not to disconnect your hose before winter, you run the possibility of freezing your pipes, causing them to expand and burst.
Water will expand as it freezes. When you leave your hose attached to your spigot and it’s filled with water, it will take up roughly 10% more space in your pipes. Your pipes will eventually burst and your valves or joints will likely break as well.
When to Disconnect Your Hose
Right before the beginning of the winter season is the best time to disconnect your hose.
Even if you own frost-resistant spigots, it’s still recommended that you disconnect your hoses.
What if Damage Has Occurred?
Before you know it, it’s already too late, and you will need professional help. Fortunately, there are many businesses ready to provide Amarillo water damage restoration. But most don’t compare to the expertise of SERVPRO.
SERVPRO has been providing its expert handiwork to countless individuals for 35+ years. We feel confident that when you choose us, you will be satisfied with the Amarillo water damage restoration we provide.
No matter if you need sewage cleanup, Amarillo fire damage restoration, or even water damage restoration, you can count on us.
Let’s face it, when it comes to sewage, practically nobody wants to handle the mess. Sewage is unsanitary, smelly, and a downright unpleasant thing to deal with. But in the hands of a professional, that sewage mess blemishing your property can be gone in no time.
SERVPRO has been providing expert sewage cleanup services for a long time, and sewage is no stranger to us. If you ever find yourself troubled by a huge sewage mess, you can count on SERVPRO Amarillo to help.
How Does SERVPRO Help?
SERVPRO houses a team of experts that are professionally trained to handle any sewage cleanup. Upon arriving at your property, we’ll inspect for damages and how to tackle the mess and make it look (and smell like) it never happened. We’ll use the necessary, professional-grade equipment to ensure the problem is resolved quickly.
Why Choose SERVPRO for Sewage Cleanup in Amarillo?
SERVPRO has been providing its professional services for 35+ years. During that time, we’ve seen many properties afflicted with problems ranging from water damage to smoke damage and sewage messes.
Sewage messes are of no challenge to us and we often find ourselves easily resolving the problem in a timely manner. We feel more than certain that by hiring us, you’ll be satisfied with the results of our work as we make your property safe to occupy again.
Don’t Get Your Hands Dirty. Call SERVPRO Instead!
No matter if you need sewage cleanup, Amarillo fire damage restoration, or even water damage restoration, you can count on us.
DIYs might seem easy to solve your problems. But if you’re not an expert in repairing water damage, you could damage your structure even further.
Water damage can be much more devastating to your home than it first sounds. While leaks can deteriorate structures and cause damage to the home, it can also contribute to financial loss when it comes to repairs.
In fact, The EPA states that 10% of residential properties have leaks that waste at least 90 gallons of water each day. Oftentimes, improper attempts at repairs of leaks in the home can lead to more problems, and for that reason it’s recommended to not attempt DIY water damage repairs.
Water damage is an area best reserved for the experts, so you should never try to fix it yourself. By doing so, you risk the chance of causing more problems than you’re already facing.
The team at SERVPRO Amarillo are reliable, knowledgeable professionals who offer Amarillo water damage restoration for any of your residential water repairs. If you’ve located some structural damage in your home, recently dealt with a flood, or have a leak that you can’t locate, here are some reasons to understand why it may be preferable to avoid DIY water damage repairs.
It Will Cost More Money
Chances are, going the DIY route has always been an easier and more cost-effective alternative to fixing your problems — problems that would otherwise require an expert. Or at least, that’s what it can seem like.
While it is tempting, performing your own DIY water damage repairs may end up costing you more money in the long run. This is because Amarillo water damage restoration is an area that will require an expert’s touch. Having someone, such as yourself, work on water damage could result in more payment for repairs.
DIYs Can Cause More Damage
Performing DIY water damage repairs could cause more damage to your home.
DIYs make it seem easy to solve your own problems. But truth be told, if you’re not an expert and you try to repair water damage, you could damage your structure even further. As a result, more water damage will occur and you will need the help of an Amarillo water damage restoration professional.
Repair Your Water Damage Today with SERVPRO of Amarillo
If you notice water damage in your home, don’t try to DIY it. Instead, call the experts at SERVPRO of Amarillo for an inspection or to enlist our professional services.
The rain and flooding situation in Amarillo can be significant. Water can severely damage your property, no matter how prepared you are.
The SERVPRO team in Amarillo is always on alert and is trained to take on tough jobs. And boy, do we have our work cut out for us!
Amarillo is situated in the panhandle of Texas, and the weather here can be rough. In a given year, you could be dealing with drought, severe winter storms and thunderstorms, flooding, tornadoes, wildfires, and seismic activity.
As a result, the Office of Emergency Management must ensure that the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) incorporates all five phases of emergency management – prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.
But what does that mean for your home?
Considering the severity and emergency of the weather condition, the houses in Amarillo need more comprehensive cleaning and restoration services. Here’s what you need to know:
Water Damage in Amarillo
The rain and flooding situation in Amarillo can be significant. Water can severely damage your property, no matter how prepared you are.
Homes here usually have to deal with leakage and flood water damage, especially if they haven’t kept up regular maintenance and upkeep of the roof. If left standing inside a building for too long, the water can seep into the electrical systems and damage wiring and light fixtures, posing an even greater danger to your family and loved ones.
Moreover, the water can pool up inside the flooring, which must be cleaned immediately instead of waiting for rot and mold to set in. Also, if you have carpeted flooring, you might need to get it washed, or even replaced, to remove the odor.
How SERVPRO Conducts Water Damage Restoration
Our highly trained water damage restoration specialists are available 24/7 to serve you anytime you need emergency services. We will extract the water, fix your roof, clean, dry and sanitize your flooring, remove odor, restore your electrical system, and get rid of the mold as needed.
Call Us For Help With Any Disaster Damage
If you have encountered your first thunderstorm in Amarillo and need assistance recovering from it, call us at our SERVPRO of Amarillo franchise number (806) 331-4555 and book our service today.
Water damage should be treated ASAP to avoid long-term problems. If you’re looking for a water damage repair company reach out to SERVPRO.
Approximately 14,000 individuals in the United States per year encounter a water damage emergency in the residential and commercial sector.
Unfortunately, water damage can lead to several problems, such as mold formation and mildew that develop 24-48 hours following water exposure. Contact with mold can cause health effects.
This is why it is vital to get water damage treatment as soon as possible after a flood or plumbing mishap. SERVPRO Amarillo provides exceptional water damage repair services in Amarillo and surrounding areas. Our certified experts are responsive to emergency calls, and they make sure that the job is carried out in a skilled manner.
Contact us any time, day or night, at (806) 331-4555 for assistance.
Water repair damage costs: A quick overview
SERVPRO provides all its services at market-competitive rates. However, water damage repair costs in Amarillo vary, depending on the nature of the work required. So, let’s dive into the possible damage repair costs you might have to pay in the event of a flood.
Commercial Water Damage
Water damage at a commercial property can slow work operations. But, if you delay the repair for long, your business will hurt more. So, whether the damage is due to a natural disaster or caused by a pipe burst, it’s essential to get it repaired as soon as possible.
The team at SERVPRO can repair the damage, ensure structural drying, eliminate foul odors, and help you clean the upholstery and fabric at an affordable rate.
Residential Water Damage
Several factors can cause residential water damage. For example, if your house has recently faced a natural disaster, broken or leaky appliances, sewage backups, or if you have a flooded basement, you can contact SERVPRO to learn about the rates.
SERVPRO’s teams offer swift emergency assistance to ensure that all property's water is emptied before causing additional damage. The experts also ensure the flooding's root cause is resolved and the property is dry and ready for use asap.
Get a Free Quote
Water damage should be treated as soon as possible to avoid long-term problems. If you’re looking for a reliable water damage repair company in Amarillo, reach out to SERVPRO to get a quote. SERVPRO has a team of skilled professionals ready to give you a hand.
Here we see a wall damaged by water. Call SERVPRO of West Amarillo if you notice this in your home. 1-806-331-4555
Hidden Signs of a Water Leak
Sudden Appearance of Mold
Mold growth-Growth can start within 24 to 48 hours. Mold remediation and removal require the help of an expert. Mold may be visible and come with an odor.
Changes in the Floor, Ceiling, or Walls
Water damage is often found when drips or wet spots are found. Water inside a wall or ceiling may cause bubbles in latex paint, or the paint may begin to peel off. There could also be a colder soft spot.
If you don’t see water on the floor, there could still be water. Flooring may begin to loosen. Wood floors may swell, ceramic tile may pop, loosen, or crack. Flooring that has been glued on may come up. Water may even seep up through the flooring in some instances.
Increase in Water Consumption
In some cases, nothing will be noticed except a drastic change in water consumption. This is most common in homes with a pier and beam foundation.
SERVPRO of West Amarillo is available 24/7 at 806-331-4555 to serve Amarillo and the surrounding areas!
SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals have the expertise and specialized equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition. They use a scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup that emphasizes monitoring and documenting the drying process from beginning to end.
Call the SERVPRO Professionals at 806-331-4555
Every water damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same.
Emergency Contact
When you call, our representative will ask you questions that will help the SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professional respond to your water emergency more quickly and efficiently. This initial contact is an important part of a fast, effective restoration.
Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
A SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professional will carefully inspect your property’s water damage, determining the type of water damage and the areas affected. This is a crucial step to creating an effective plan of action that will result in a successful restoration.
Water Removal / Water Extraction
Typically, water is removed using our powerful pumps and vacuums during the water removal process. The SERVPRO Franchise Professionals start this process as soon as possible to minimize further damage and to help prevent mold growth.
Drying and Dehumidification
After the bulk of the water has been removed, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use specialized equipment to target the water that’s harder to access. They use less intrusive, scientific drying methods to draw the remaining water and moisture from your property with air movers and dehumidifiers.
Cleaning and Sanitizing
Water damage also affects your belongings, like furniture, clothing, and personal items. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can clean restorable items using specialized cleaning techniques. They also sanitize with antimicrobial treatments and remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
Restoration
The last step is restoring your home or business back to its pre-water damage condition. The restoration step can be relatively minor, such as replacing a few drywall panels, or could include major reconstruction, such as rebuilding entire rooms of a home or business.
Dealing with a Flooded house and a burst pipe? SERVPRO of West Amarillo is Here to Help
This flaking joint compound is from high humidity levels due to a burst pipe elsewhere in the building.
A quick response is critical when dealing with water inside your home. The longer it sits, the more damage it can cause and the greater the risk of secondary damages such as mold or mildew.
1) Stop the water flow. Turn off the water at the nearest shutoff- such as under the sink, behind the washing machine, behind the toilet, or use the main shut off.
2) Call SERVPRO of West Amarillo 806-331-4555, we are available twenty four hours a day, 365 days a year for emergency services. We service all 26 counties in the Texas Panhandle!
3) Contact your Insurance Company. SERVPRO of West Amarillo will provide all necessary documentation of the restoration efforts to your insurance company.
4) Relax in the knowledge that you have contacted trusted and experienced professionals with your water damage. Average drying time is approximately three to four days, this of course varies depending on the materials in question, how long the water was able to penetrate materials, humidity levels, and other variables.
This dish set was damaged by fire. After careful cleaning, it looks good as new. SERVPRO of West Amarillo 806-331-4555
Damage to the structure of your home caused by storms is all too common. It can affect not just the structure but also everything inside, the “content”. SERVPRO® of West Amarillo understands that your home is more than a building, that it and all your belongings makes up your family’s’ home.
We specialize in carefully and thoughtfully restoring contents damaged by water, mold, or fire and smoke. Our expertise and "restore, don’t replace" mentality can help you save money while preserving keepsakes that can't be replaced. We gently pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored back to the condition they were in before suffering damage. SERVPRO® of West Amarillo uses several methods of cleaning your contents, including:
Wet Cleaning- An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues
Dry Cleaning- Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning
Spray and Wipe- Effective for items that can't withstand wet cleaning
Foam Cleaning- Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if they were wet cleaned
Abrasive Cleaning- Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned
Immersion Cleaning- Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product
We also have the experience and expertise to successfully restore soft goods, such as clothing (even leather!), bed and bath linens, upholstered furniture, area rugs, and more!
This can happen when a large volume of water sits on laminate flooring. Call Us to take care of your flooded kitchen! 806-331-4555
SERVPRO of West Amarillo would love to assist you, no matter the day or hour of your water damage emergency. We are a 24-hour service, here to respond to any call—no matter the size of the damage. We have experienced and professional employees that can reach your location quickly to help you through this tough time.
What to Expect
We know that in the face of an emergency, you may be confused, stressed, and overwhelmed. It is important to know that no water damage is the same, so you will be asked a series of questions about your water damage. These questions are crucial to caring for you quickly and in the best way possible. They will determine how many trained SERVPRO professionals to bring to the job, how much equipment and resources to bring, what to expect, and so on.
Our SERVPRO representative will likely ask for the following:
Your first and last name and contact information
The physical address of the water-damaged home or business
When did the water damage occur?
What caused the water damage (if known)?
How many rooms and what kind of floor was affected?
What kind of foundation does your home or business sit on?
Insurance information (if applicable)
Has the source of the water damage has been repaired/ceased?
Is there electricity available onsite?
Call SERVPRO of West Amarillo today at (806)331-4555 for all your water damage needs!
If you wake up to water on the floor, call SERVPRO of West Amarillo. 806-331-4555, serving all 26 counties in the Texas Panhandle.
When it comes to life's curve-balls, it isn't a question of if they'll happen- it's more a question of when they'll happen. Home and business owners can take steps to prepare for disasters, but one can never fully prevent them from happening. A pipe will burst during a freeze, a storm blows in depositing gallons of water into your home, or a dish washer malfunctions.
Chances are your home or business will eventually suffer some sort of water emergency; it's important to prepare now, before disaster strikes.
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo Professionals are trained to respond quickly, professionally, and efficiently when mitigating your loss. When your home or business is under water, every minute counts. That's why SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
As part of your preparations, place our number in a conspicuous place to remember to call SERVPRO® of West Amarillo 806-331-4555 to help make it "Like it never even happened."
When dealing with water emergencies, immediate action is critical. A delay of just a few hours can increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call 24/7 806-331-4555
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of West Amarillo has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect:
When calling, you will be asked some questions regarding your water damage emergency which will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask:
Your name and contact information
Your insurance information (if applicable)
The street address of the water-damaged home or business
Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility and ongoing to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
SERVPRO of West Amarillo-Certified for the Highest Standards
SERVPRO of West Amarillo is proud of their achievement in obtaining and maintaining their status as an IICRC Firm.
When you have to deal with water flooding your home due to a broken pipe or water heater, you want to call a local reputable company with the qualifications to deal with your problem in a professional manner.
Enter, SERVPRO of West Amarillo. They are an IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) accredited firm, so you can have confidence in their professionalism and be assured they have been trained to follow the highest of industry standards.
The Better Business Bureau holds SERVPRO of West Amarillo as an accredited business, so you know you can trust SERVPRO of West Amarillo.
SERVPRO of West Amarillo is a locally owned and operated franchise. They have been serving all 26 counties in the Texas Panhandle for over 15 years.
Here when you need us, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year.
SERVPRO of West Amarillo is here for all of your water problems. 806-351-4555. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all 365 days a year.
During cold Texas Panhandle winters, we tend to use a bit more hot water than the rest of the year. These are some common issues with water heaters. When is the last time YOUR water heater was inspected?
One of the most common issues is sediment and mineral build-up. If your water heater doesn't produce near the amount of hot water it should, a likely suspect is the lower element. Sediment buildup can cause the heating element to not work as well as it should and can even cause low water pressure.
The heating element itself can give out, pushed over the edge by working harder and wear out or break.
Frozen pipes can be an issue especially during a sudden cold spell or freezing event. Insulating your pipes is a great way to prevent freezing. Insulating the pipes leaving your water heater is a great way to prevent heat dissipation.
Any of these issues can lead to a great deal of water exiting the water heater and making a mess in your home.
Don't Panic! Turn off the water and call SERVPRO of West Amarillo. We will respond and get to work removing and drying up the water. If you have water leaking, spraying, or pouring into your home, call us at 806-331-4555.
Heat escapes, melting snow on the roof. It freezes on the eave, which stops meltwater-adding to the damn. Water can backup and seep into the home.
To keep your pipes from freezing, keep your home at 65 degrees or higher. It’s colder inside the walls than inside your home, so if you lower the thermostat any more you risk freezing pipes.
Don’t wait for frozen pipes to burst-thaw them!
If your pipe bursts, turn off the water and call SERVPRO® of West Amarillo
Find your main water shutoff, make sure you know how to use it. Feel free to test it too.
For very cold temperatures let both hot and cold faucets drip slowly. Moving water doesn’t freeze as well.
Make sure your heat source is working safely.
Close your fireplace flue when you aren’t using it.
If you are going to be away, have a friend or neighbor check your home regularly. SERVPRO® gets lots of calls every year involving busted pipes discovered upon returning from vacation!
Keep your eye on your gutters, backed up gutters can allow water into your home.
Here to Help®
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo Call us at 806-351-4555; 24/7/365
Did you know there is science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychrometrics (the field of engineering concerned with the physical and thermodynamic properties of gas-vapor mixtures) is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your instincts may be to gather some towels, mop up the mess, and place a fan or two around the area, SERVPRO® of West Amarillo Professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. If your home or business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO® of West Amarillo will:
Inspect the building to detect every wet component to prevent secondary damage from happening (growth).
Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor the drying process.
Speed up the drying process by using professional drying equipment.
What exactly does it mean to "speed up"? A wet structure can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material- but only if the air is, indeed, drier.
The problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the structure is drying out.
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo has the tools and equipment to sped the natural drying process along, including state-of-the-art equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. They also use monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.
The bottom line? SERVPRO® of West Amarillo has the equipment and training to help make water damage "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo Ι 806-331-4555 Ι 1301 SW 8th
Left on it's own, a leak can rot all the way down to the sub-floor and support beams. Don't delay, Call SERVPRO of West Amarillo 806-331-4555 24/7/365
We've all been there before—the dishwasher just drained into the kitchen floor. The washing machine overflowed… again. You discover a leak under the kitchen sink. Life happens. We all think that it's no big deal and that we can handle it ourselves. Unfortunately, this is not always true. When dealing with water damage, there is always much more to it than just sopping up the water. The water that's left behind walls and underneath cabinets or floors from these issues could create thousands of dollars’ worth of damage. Most people don't realize the importance of getting professional help and we at SERVPRO of West Amarillo are here to educate!
Call for help immediately—do not wait!
There are many reasons why you should call sooner rather than later:
Secondary damage can occur. Secondary water damage occurs when a water damage isn’t taken care of immediately. Signs of secondary water damage may appear as rotted or soggy drywall, buckling hardwood floors, peeling vinyl, and mold. This could have been avoided with quick action.
Your insurance may not cover the damage if you wait too long. Insurance companies all vary and no policy is the same as the next, but most insurance companies see water damages as an emergency and would like to get it taken care of immediately to minimize damage and costs.
The longer the water sits, the longer it has time for bacteria and mold to grow. Depending on the conditions, mold can grow as quickly as 24 hours. While it may take at least 3-12 days to colonize and become visible, the last thing you want is for the mold to occur!
Professional help with water damage can sometimes be costly but you cannot put a price on the peace of mind and security you will gain from knowing that your home is taken care of and not deteriorating by the minute. Play it safe, call us today at 806-331-4555 for your water damage needs.
We will file with your insurance for you!
Our professionals know what your insurance company needs when reviewing your claim.
Category I (Clean water) Typically comes directly from a sanitary source, such as pipes, water heater or rainwater. For water to be considered category I, it should look and smell like tap water. There are no risks to health with this category unless the water contacts contaminants. Microbial growth can begin in as little as 24 hours. SERVPRO® of West Amarillo can begin mitigation efforts in as little as one hour!
Category 2 (Gray water) It is the result of water mixed with chemicals, or water with biological and/or physical contamination. Sources vary, proceed with caution when the source isn’t sanitary, like backed up storm drains, treated cooling water, or even from equipment. This type of water carries microorganisms, which are responsible for making you sick, and causing odors. SERVPRO® of West Amarillo has a plan for many different scenarios, and proprietary products designed to kill microorganisms and mold spoor, leaving your house smelling fresh.
Category 3 (Sewage) Usually sewage or similar. This water is extremely contaminated, and care should be taken. It is essential to get professional help from SERVPRO® of West Amarillo when faced with this. Not doing so in a timely manner or doing it incorrectly could result in additional damage, odors, and costs. Moisture will find its way into walls and under flooring and cabinets. It’s vital to find and dry all the affected areas to prevent mold growth and damage to the structure. Insurance will usually require the removal of anything that was contaminated with Category 3 water for health and safety reasons.
Our professionals know what your insurance company needs when reviewing your claim. The mitigation process is documented and photographed, and we are in contact with your adjuster every step of the way.
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo will work to make things "Like it never even happened."®
SERVPRO® Fire & Water-Cleanup & Restoration TM
806-331-4555
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo is Here When you need us 24/7
Water leaks aren't always obvious. Call us today for a suspected leak SERVPRO® of West Amarillo Fire & Water-Cleanup & Restoration TM 806-331-4555
Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle
We know that in the face of an emergency, you may be confused, stressed, and overwhelmed or any combination of these. It’s important to know that no water damage is the same, so when you call you will be asked a series of questions about your water damage crucial to caring for you quickly in the best way possible. They will determine how many trained SERVPRO® professionals to bring to the job, how much equipment and resources to bring, what to expect, and so on.
Our SERVPRO® representative will likely ask for the following:
Your first and last name and contact information
The physical address of the water-damaged home or business
When the water damage occurred
If there is standing water
Cause of the water damage
The number of rooms and the type of flooring affected
The type of foundation
Insurance information if applicable
If the source of the water damage has been repaired or ceased
Is there electricity available
Call SERVPRO® of West Amarillo at 806-331-4555 for all your water damage needs.
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo is here to help make your water damage "Like it never even happened." ®
Call us 24/7 806-331-4555
Water Damages rarely wait for when it's convenient. When is the most inconvenient? Vacation.
The last thing that should be on your mind when you’re on vacation away from Amarillo Texas is whether a broken pipe has flooded your home. This can cause damage to your belongings and your home, so the best thing is prevention.
Prevent Damage
One of the main causes of water damages is the water heater. It’s a good idea to shut it off. If a pipe breaks or the valve gives, hot water will flood the home, and water will continue to fill the tank and leak out of whatever gave way. Other appliances generally won’t leak unless in use.
If leaving the home during winter, turn the heat down but not so low that pipes can freeze. Keep the water running at a drip to prevent freezing.
Wrap the pipes. Exposed pipes can always use the extra insulation from the elements. During a particularly cold spell a heat lamp focused on the pipes (not too close!) is helpful too.
Keep an Eye on Your Home
If you’re going to be gone for several days, it’s not a bad idea to have a neighbor, family member or friend stop by the house once in a while. This can be just a quick peek inside to verify there is no flooding, a broken pipe, or any other issues.
You can also use web cameras that can be viewed from a phone or computer to check on your home. This won’t prevent a pipe from bursting, or a flood but it can allow you to at least get a professional there sooner and prevent further water damage.
Whether from a burst pipe or a Texas thunderstorm, SERVPRO® of West Amarillo is here and ready to help make it "Like it never even happened." ®
Your water damage is unique.
We know that in the face of an emergency, you may be confused, stressed, and overwhelmed or any combination. It’s important to know that no water damage is the same, so you will be asked a series of questions about your water damage crucial to caring for you quickly in the best way possible. They will determine how many trained SERVPRO® professionals to bring to the job, how much equipment and resources to bring, what to expect, and so on.
Our SERVPRO® representative will likely ask for the following:
Your first and last name and contact information
The physical address of the water-damaged home or business
When the water damage occurred
Cause of the water damage
The number of rooms and they type of flooring affected
The type of foundation
Insurance information if applicable
If the source of the water damage has been repaired or ceased
If there is electricity available
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo today at 806-331-4555 for all your water damage needs.
My water heater leaked and now there’s water everywhere!
The shut off on this heater is a bit out of the way. Knowing where your shut offs are can save time, hassle, and money.
What to do first:
Cathartic scream. It helps. If you’re not sure about that, we suggest a big sigh.
Turn the water off. If you can, try to turn it off at the source. There should be a shutoff where the water enters the heater. If there isn’t one, you might have to go to the main shut off, usually located in the alley.
Call your plumber and insurance agent. Your plumber can fix whatever broke, and your insurance agent can start the claim process.
Call SERVPRO® of West Amarillo! 806-331-4555
What happens next:
We show up in our green trucks and extract all the water we can. Then our technicians will start the drying process. We will use some combination of:
fans (“air movers” in restoration lingo)
dehumidifiers (or a “dehu”) that removes moisture from the air and speeds drying
mats that force air into the floors and walls (injectidry is the actual name)
a wall drying system (a “medusa”) to get air flowing into the walls.
And when we finish, it will be “Like it never even happened.”®
Tip: Walk around your home and see if you know where all the water shutoffs are. Nobody has time to find the shutoff in the middle of the night while sloshing through wet carpet listening to the spouse’s cathartic scream.
We at SERVPRO of West Amarillo know that the summer heat is officially here! This means playing in the sprinkler, yard maintenance, and your water bill possibly increasing! Here are a few tips on lowering your water usage, as well as helping with water conservation in our area:
Adjust Sprinklers to where they aren’t watering any pavement/concrete. It sounds silly, but it’s more common to waste water this way than you think!
Water your yard or garden before 10:00am or after 6:00pm. This is when the temperatures are lower and evaporation is minimal, meaning that the soil will better retain the water.
Inspect your irrigation system if you have one. Check for leaks, broken lines, or blockage in the lines. A well-managed system will save you money, water, and time.
Add a shutoff nozzle to your garden hose. This saves approximately 5 to 7 gallons of water for each minute that your hose is turned on.
Do not overwater! If you are concerned that your lawn/garden isn’t being watered sufficiently, water more frequently using less water, rather that overwatering and causing puddling. Puddling is pointless in the sense that it could drown plants, the soil obviously cannot retain all the water, and this only causes the water to eventually be evaporated and wasted.
Raise your lawnmower blades. Again, this probably sounds silly, but longer grass promotes deeper root growth, resulting in a more drought-resistant lawn, cooler soil temperatures due to the sun not being able to penetrate to the soil (this reduces evaporation), and fewer weeds.
Give the hose a rest! Clean patios, driveways, and sidewalks with a leaf blower or broom when necessary, rather than hosing them off. Don’t forget to check for leaks around your spigot area and perform maintenance on leaks and drips.
SERVPRO of West Amarillo thanks you and we hope that you all have a fantastic summer!
A recent sewage backup caused a business in Dalhart to have a basement flood. This photo was taken before SERVPRO of West Amarillo's crew began performing mitigation services. The job may look overwhelming in the photo, but we were able to graciously tackle it! We pride ourselves on our ability to serve the entire Texas panhandle and leave a trail of happy customers along the way!
What to Expect: Guidance in the Process of Water Damage Restoration
There are many steps that a customer may or may not know about when it comes to a water damage. Truth be told, the customer may rarely know what to expect at all when in such a stressful situation. SERVPRO of West Amarillo is here to help guide you through the water damage process.
Step 1 – Making the Call
Contact SERVPRO of West Amarillo for any and all water damage needs. Washing machine or dishwasher leaks? Toilet back-ups? Burst or leaky pipes? Hot water heater issues? Flooded crawlspace? SERVPRO of West Amarillo has emergency crews prepared for any situation 24/7. In addition to calling us, if you have home insurance, it is a good idea to call and file a claim, as water damages can often be more expensive than expected. Make sure to have the claim number and, if possible, adjuster information ready. Our office staff will be in direct contact with the insurance company throughout the entire process so that we can relieve as much stress as possible from the customer.
Step 2 – Assessment of the Damage
Our experienced and trustworthy crew will arrive on the scene as soon as possible to not only bring you peace of mind, but inspect the property’s water damage, determining the type of water damage and which areas are affected. This is crucial to setting up a plan for your home, in hopes to prevent any further damage and dry as fast as possible.
Step 3 – Water Extraction
In many water damages, there are hundreds to thousands of gallons of water that must first be extracted so that we can begin the drying process. Our crew will use powerful pumps and vacuums to remove this excess water. This is typically done as soon as we get onto the scene by our crew, while the Production Manager or Crew Chief assesses the damage and provides friendly customer service to you.
Step 4 – Dehumidifying and Drying the Home
After extracting the excess water, our highly trained crew will set specialized equipment to dry all areas of the home, even the hard to reach areas. If some things are taking longer to dry or we determine that they are ruined or cannot dry, be prepared for the removal of baseboards, partial drywall removal, and/or removal of carpet/pad/flooring. This is nothing to panic over, it is a normal part of the process and sometimes must be done to prevent a future mold problem.
Step 5 – Cleaning and Sanitization of the Home
Water damage does not discriminate—it can damage more than just your flooring and walls in your home. Things like furniture, clothing, and other personal items could be damaged by the water as well. Not to fear, SERVPRO of West Amarillo has technicians that are trained to clean restorable items. They will also sanitize the home and items with antimicrobial treatment to prevent any future growth. Any lingering odor can either be eliminated with air scrubbers or fogging equipment.
Step 6 – Restoring Your Home
The last step of the water restoration process is restoring your home to its condition before your water damage. Depending on the extent of the damage, this step can be as minor as placing the baseboards back or replacing drywall panels, but in some cases can be as major as rebuilding entire rooms.
The last thing that is on your mind when you’re on a vacation away from the Texas panhandle is whether a burst pipe has created a flood in your home. This can cause damage to not only your house, but all of your personal belongings as well. The best scenario is to prevent the situation from occurring, so that you will not need to come home from a relaxing getaway to such stressful and inconvenient events.
Prevention
Prevention is key; burst and broken pipes can be very expensive and/or difficult to fix. We may think that “it will never happen to us,” but there is no such thing as being too precautious! If you’re planning to be out of town for an extended amount of time, especially during the harsher winter months, there are several steps you can take to prevent your home from being flooded: • Don’t turn down the heat too far. Leaving the heat on and at an adequate temperature, even if it is slightly lower than usual, can keep your home warm enough to prevent the pipes from freezing and bursting. Leave closet and bedroom doors open to allow full circulation throughout the home as well.
Leave the faucets slightly open for water to flow. The water doesn’t have to be left running fully. If you allow the faucet to at least drip, this helps relieve the pressure in your water system, which possibly eliminates water pipe repair.
Insulate your pipes. If you wrap your exposed pipes with towels, blankets, or other insulating materials, it provides extra protection from the cold.
Watch Your Home While Away
If you’re going to be away from home for several days, especially during the winter, it would be a great idea to have a family member, neighbor, or friend check on the home periodically. You may have them ensure that there are no frozen pipes or flooding, that the thermostat is working, the house is at a decent temperature, warm air is circulating throughout the home properly, and that the faucets are still dripping water. Another great idea is to use video cameras that you can view and access from your smartphone, tablet, or computer to personally check on the home. This won’t necessarily prevent a pipe from freezing and bursting, but it can allow you to at least get a professional there to do a water pipe repair sooner, which will prevent further damage to your home.
What do you do when you find water damage in your home or office?
SERVPRO of West Amarillo has you covered. We have made a list of what to do and not do while you wait for help to arrive.
DO: (Clean Water)
Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and table top items.
Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately room temperature.
DO: (Contaminated Water)
Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage
Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items
DON'T: (Clean Water)
Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
Enter affected areas if electrical outlets. switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.
Leave oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceilings are sagging from retained water.
DON'T: (Contaminated Water)
Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminates.
Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.
If your home or business has suffered a loss from water or sewage, call SERVPRO of West Amarillo today at (806)331-4555
The last thing that should be on your mind when you’re on a vacation away from Amarillo, Tx is whether a broken pipe has caused an area of your home to flood. This can cause damage to your belongings and your home, so the best thing to do is to prevent the need for water pipe repair.
Prevent Burst Pipes
Broken pipes can be difficult to fix, and the damage can be costly. It’s best to keep this issue from ever happening. If you’re traveling out of town for an extended period of time, specifically during the winter, there are several steps you can take to prevent your home from being flooded:
• Don’t turn down the heat too far. If you keep the heat on, even if you turn it lower than if you were home, it can keep your pipes warm enough to prevent them from freezing.
• Keep the water running. You don’t have to run the water on full. If you allow the faucet to drip, this helps relieve the pressure in your water system, possibly eliminating water pipe repair.
• Wrap the pipes. If you wrap pipes, especially those that are exposed, with towels or blankets, it provides extra insulation against the elements.
Keep an Eye on Your Home From a Distance
If you’re going to be gone for several days, especially during the coldest parts of winter, it’s not a bad idea to have a neighbor, family member or friend stop by the house once in a while. This can be just a quick peek inside to verify there is no flooding or a broken pipe, or checking the thermostat to make sure plenty of warm air is circulating in your empty home.
You can also use video cameras that you can view from your phone or computer to check on your home. This won’t prevent a pipe from bursting, but it can allow you to at least get a professional there to do a water pipe repair sooner and prevent further damage.
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