New Technology Assists in Finding Water Damage

5/14/2024 (Permalink)

New developments in technology can help us find water damage even when not visible to the naked eye!

Keeping Up on Technology

SERVPRO® Team McGinnis uses the latest Industry technology and state-of-the-art equipment to turn your loss around.

We have specialized equipment designated per category of loss. Our warehouse holds enough equipment to maintain and restore a hotel with a 45-room water loss. Not only does our warehouse contain equipment for large water losses, it also houses the various cleaning products produced by and are SERVPRO® certified. Although each SERVPRO® Franchise is individually owned and operated, as part of a larger National entity, we have access to resources outside of our region when a major disaster strikes our area - such as wildfires, or the recent ice-storms.  We can call upon our colleagues to ensure we have what is needed to help you and your family.

There is a wide variety of types of equipment used to restore your property to like new condition that your typical cleansers and cleaning materials cannot handle.  We not only keep up on the latest Industry standards for new equipment technology, we ensure that our Technicians are staying up-to-date in training on the newest techniques and technology.

SERVPRO® is available 24/7/365 to serve our customers. We are a highly trained water, fire, mold and biohazard restoration company with many services not typically covered by other restoration companies.

Call us today for your cleaning and restoration needs at 541-745-2097.

Life along the River can lead to water loss!

3/18/2024 (Permalink)

Life along a river can spell disaster during rainy seasons, and Spring thaw!

No matter how prepared you are, disaster catches you off guard. The Willamette River is a stunning backdrop to many of our towns here in the Willamette Valley, Oregon. Like many areas with a river there are lots of homes nestled close by. Unfortunately there comes an unexpected day when the river rises and water can threaten your home. Your property becomes damaged and you fear the worst.

Here at SERVPRO Team McGinnis, we specialize in water damage, clean up and repair. We get things back to normal looking “Like it never even happened.”

We have the equipment to clean out any water left behind and get your home contents dried.

In a situation like this we pack up all of your contents, bring them back to our warehouse where trained employees, and top of the line equipment dry out your belongings. Once your home is repaired and back to normal we bring your contents back.

You know you’re in good hands with our highly trained professionals working around the clock 24/7/365 to service any disaster.

SERVPRO® offers no-cost Emergency Ready Profiles which is part of a disaster preparedness plan. Call today at 541-745-2097.

Water damage? Quick action is critical!

1/10/2024 (Permalink)

When water damage occurs, do not hesitate to call the professionals at SERVPRO®

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO® arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

SERVPRO® specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO Corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.  Need Emergency Service? Call us today at 541-745-2097

Water damage can happen anywhere in your home

12/6/2023 (Permalink)

Many common household appliances can be the source of water damage. Knowing what to look for can help prevent damages!

Water damage can happen from many different appliances in your home. Here are some tips from SERVPRO® on how to make sure your appliances are working properly and the water supply lines are in good condition. As a good rule of thumb, check behind your appliances once per year. This is a good way to address problems before they happen.

Washers

Small leaks stemming from a washing machine may appear to be a minor issue, but the problem should not be ignored. Even a pinhole leak in a water supply line can subsequently break out into a household flood. In fact, a burst supply line is a key cause of significant water damage involving washers. A good way to prevent water damage is to check your hoses leading to your washing machine a couple times per year.

Also consider installing an automatic shutoff valve. When water pools on the floor, the sensor detects it and closes the water valve.

Refrigerators with Ice Makers Hooked up to plumbing

We appreciate the convenience of an automatic ice maker, but it can also be the culprit of household floods. The copper or plastic water line that supplies an ice maker can leak or worse yet, become unattached if it’s not installed properly. Again, you should inspect the line periodically for crimps and make sure the valve connection is secure. Leaving a four inch gap between the refrigerator and wall also helps to prevent crimping in your water line.

Dish Washers

Dishwashers are another common appliance that can cause problems. If a dishwasher has a supply line burst it can fill your kitchen with water during a wash and rinse cycle.

Another source of household floods is when a dishwasher backs up soaking the floor with sudsy water. The problem could be the wrong detergent, a faulty float, the buildup of food and other debris in the drain gate or a clog in the discharge hose under the sink.

Routine inspection of the hoses and connections can save you major repair costs in the future. In addition, check the drain gate frequently and remove food particles and debris.  And if water damage does happen, know that you can rely on the Water Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO®!

Water Damage to different floorings

11/27/2023 (Permalink)

Water effects flooring types differently - your trained professionals at SERVPRO® know how to help YOU

Your home has many different flooring types, and our SERVPRO® professionals have different tools and equipment that can help to restore these after water losses. Many materials compose the construction of your home's flooring, walls, and ceiling systems. Different strategies are necessary to remove water and moisture from these structural elements because so many materials make up your home. Our team of professionals has extensive training and experience to provide the ideal approach for whatever wet surface we encounter. 

Recognizing what tools are best for actions like water removal in your homes gets determined during the initial evaluation and damage assessment. Scoping the job is a process where our project manager and crew chief work with the customer to identify preloss conditions and pre-existing conditions so that we can return the property to its original state as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible. 

Can You Remove Water from Carpeting?  

In areas like your living room and bedrooms, carpeting is one of the typical flooring types encountered in area homes. When migrating water reaches the fibers of carpeted floors, this moisture can get quickly absorbed. It is critical to remove water from carpeting as soon as possible so that moisture does not penetrate the padding and, eventually, the subflooring material. When reconstruction is necessary, the cost of recovery amplifies. Some of the water removal tools and practices for carpeted floors include: 

• Carpet Wands – Wands are fierce attachments for wet vacuums and extractors that can pull water from the surface layer and the padding of carpeted floors. These tools are wise choices when the padding is getting replaced. 
• Weighted Extractors – Stand on and ride on extraction tools can force the surface layer of carpeting and the padding together against the subflooring. This action forces moisture to the surface for an onboard vacuum to remove. 
• Floating Practices – By placing a centrifugal air mover between the top and padding layers of carpeted floors, we can dry both of these materials simultaneously in a floating process. This style is risky as it could cause de-lamination from the primary and secondary backing of the carpet. 

Is Wood Flooring Salvageable After Water Damage?  

The composition of wood surfaces, especially flooring, makes it a sensitive material to standing surface water. Absorption can happen quickly, which can be disastrous if the water does not get removed quickly. Within as little as 48 hours, saturation can reach the point where it begins to warp and distort wood planks, leaving no option but removal and replacement. Some of the approaches for drying wood floors include: 

• Air movers
• Drying Mat System
• Tenting 

Does Standing Water Damage Tile?  

Many homeowners believe that tile flooring is impenetrable, even to standing water. While it is far more difficult for water to breach even the grout joints between floor tiles, a small opening or breach in this water-tight seal can allow penetration to the mortar bed and subflooring material. The water beneath tiling can be destructive and hard to detect initially. Our SERVPRO® team can address potential concerns with a simple three-step formula for removing water: 

• Extraction – We cannot determine the damage that standing water has done in areas like the kitchen or bathroom until we have removed it. There are multiple extractors, but often wet vacuums and electric submersible pumps are the common implements. 
• Surface Moisture Meter – With pooling water addressed, our technicians can work to determine the damage to tile flooring and other exposed materials. Finding moisture pockets often falls to a surface moisture meter device or probing tool to identify if damp areas exist beneath the top layer. 
• Drying Mats – If pockets of moisture get detected with thermal imagery and surface meters, we can lay drying mats to slowly draw moisture from the mortar bed and subflooring materials to preserve and protect these areas. 

Does SERVPRO Replace Flooring?  

We can offer effective solutions for extraction and drying after a full-service restoration and recovery team after a water loss incident. While we strive to restore before replacing, this is not always possible. We have a full team of licensed residential contractors that can repair and reinstall flooring materials that required discarding from water damages. In this way, we can seamlessly transition between mitigation and repairs to get you back to normal life as soon as possible. 

While you might not be able to avoid water loss incidents, you can choose the team that oversees your property's restoration and recovery. No matter what materials become affected by water exposure, our SERVPRO® team can help. Contact us today at (541) 745-2097.

Kitchen Repairs Can Be Costly!

10/2/2023 (Permalink)

Kitchen damage can be a COSTLY repair!

When we think about the kitchen in a home we think about cooking, food, dishes, and appliances.

Often these days we also think about the finishes in the kitchen. It’s fairly common for counters to be made of Quartz, Marble, or Granite. Also cabinets have become more costly in the last decade, and even more costly in the last year with the lumber prices skyrocketing. Often the thing people splurge on is the appliances in a kitchen, which can run anywhere from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

The average cost of a kitchen renovation today in America is $22,184 dollars. Or roughly $150 dollars per square foot! This makes the kitchen the most expensive square footage in your home. With bathrooms only coming in at $18,000 (Master Bath, much less for guest bath).

So taking all the costs into account, it’s easy to understand how a customer can be very upset when we arrive onsite at a water loss in a kitchen. Many times water losses in kitchens means we have to take out all flooring and cabinets to dry the underpayment (and sometimes subfloor!) Most of the time water losses in kitchens are due to dishwashers, refrigerators, insta-hot devices, and freezers. Sometimes kitchen losses are due to an adjoining laundry room having a water loss from the washer.

This is why our SERVPRO® technicians will try and dry wooden floors in place if possible. It saves the homeowner time without a kitchen if it can be achieved, and also many times saves the customer from having to file a costly claim with their homeowner's insurance.

If the water is contaminated, that is another situation entirely, and SERVPRO® always recommends that the flooring be removed and replaced if saturated beneath the surface area.

Whatever the loss and whatever the cause, trust SERVPRO® to help you through the stressful time of a homeowners loss. Our employees are capable, trained, and want to provide our customers with the best possible outcome in the end.

Call us TODAY! 541-745-2097

Different Ways Water Can Damage A Home

9/1/2023 (Permalink)

Not all water damage is immediately noticeable - flooded crawlspaces often go hidden, until damage has already begun!

A Leaky Basement

One of the most common causes of water damage is a leaky basement. To make repairs, you have to find the leak. We can help address this problem.

Leaky Plumbing

Another cause of water damage is a leaky plumbing system. Unless the system is plagued by multiple leaks, you can do the repair yourself. Depending on the extensiveness of the damage, you can either patch up the leaky pipe or change one or several damaged pipes if the problem is internal. SERVPRO® can always help you with water damage repair that is out of your hands.

Fixing the Plant Root System

Did you know that plant and shrub overgrowth could cause water damage to the home too? When the root system of the plant and shrub is too close to a structure, water could penetrate its foundation. You can resolve minor water damage caused by plant overgrowth by trimming the shrubs and removing water that pools near the foundation of your home.

Damaged Drywall

For ceilings, the usual culprit is a leaky roof or a leaky toilet. For leaky toilets, we highly recommend getting a Plumber to stop the leak. Then let the Professionals at SERVPRO® repair any damages that may have occurred.  We can repair drywall, dry any moisture and help protect against mold. 

Call SERVPRO® today if your home or business is experiencing Water Damage our number is (541)745-2097.

When its not just water!

7/5/2023 (Permalink)

Knowing where a leak comes from can help keep you and your family healthy during a clean-up

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.

Toilet Overflow or Sewer Backup?
Call Today 1-800-SERVPRO

Water damage can be classified by the three types of contaminated water. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Hour Emergency Service

Water contaminated with sewage backup should be considered an emergency situation and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are water damage restoration specialists with specialized training, equipment and protective gear to safely restore your home or business.

Sump Pump Failure Floods Basement During Rainstorm in Cornelius?

5/30/2023 (Permalink)

We restore damage from heavy rain 24 hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is a trusted leader in water damage restoration services in Cornelius. Water is invasive, so it can do serious damage to a structure in a short period of time if it is not mitigated quickly.

Our technicians are highly trained and certified to restore water damage. We use powerful industrial-grade water extraction and drying equipment to restore damaged areas quickly. Here is a recent Google review from one of our customers:

“My sump pump failed during a time of heavy rain. I just bought the house after relocating from out of state. I found the water on a Sunday night. The Company was very responsive and I feel the team they sent went above and beyond to help me get the water out of the basement and dry out the floor, carpet, and drywall. My homeowner's insurance doesn't cover this as a claim so they were really great to work with.” Dawn Dipre

Positive: Professionalism, Responsiveness

Service: Water damage-related cleanup & repair

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Cornelius has a water damage emergency, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Toilet Overflow Contaminates Forest Grove Home with Dangerous Black Water?

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24 hours a day in Washington County.

Toilets can overflow for many reasons. They can become clogged, parts can fail, or seals can crack and cause water leaks. Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is a trusted leader in emergency water damage restoration services in Washington County. We have the training, equipment, and experience to restore any sewer backup quickly and efficiently. Here are the three classifications for contaminated water:

Category 3: "Black Water"

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category three water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Category 2: "Gray Water"

• It may contain bacteria and viruses
• It can quickly degrade into category three if left untreated

Category 1: "Clean Water"

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category two or three

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Forest Grove has a water damage emergency, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

My Hillsboro Home Was Flooded by a Broken Pipe – Now What?

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Washington County.

When I discovered the leaking pipe in my home, I knew I had to act fast. Water was shooting out in all directions and flooding my garage floor. After shutting off the main water valve, I called the local Hillsboro and Forest Grove office and they sent a crew out right away!

First, they pulled the water from the room using powerful water extraction equipment, then they set up air movers and blowers to remove the excess moisture from the area. They monitored and documented the drying process to ensure the room returned to normal moisture levels, and they helped me with the insurance process and paperwork. Thanks to their fast emergency response time the drywall was salvaged and the repairs were minimal.

Water Damage Restoration Process

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today!

Water damage can happen at any time of the day or night. When your home or commercial business in Hillsboro has water damage from a broken pipe, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Heavy Rains Damage Homes in Hillsboro?

4/25/2023 (Permalink)

We restore rain damage in Washington County 24 hours a day.

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams restore rainwater damage in Hillsboro throughout the year. When you notice any signs of water entering the house, it is important to get professional help right away. Here are some tips from our website for things you can do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after the removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn the air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water
• Don't use television or other household appliances
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Hillsboro has flooding from rain or another form of storm damage, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Sump Pump Failure Causes Basement Flooding During Heavy Rainstorm in Forest Grove?

3/14/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in restoring storm damage in Washington County.

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is trained and certified to restore storm and flooding damage. Here is a Google Review from one of our customers we helped during a recent storm in Forest Grove:

“My sump pump failed during a time of heavy rain. I just bought the house after relocating from out of state. I found the water on a Sunday night. The Company was very responsive and I feel the team they sent went above and beyond to help me get the water out of the basement and dry out the floor, carpet, and drywall. My homeowner's insurance doesn't cover this as a claim so they were really great to work with.” Dawn Dipre

Here are some loss prevention and maintenance tips to keep your sump pump in good repair:

• Open the lid and remove debris that may be blocking the water inlet screen
• Pour about five gallons of water into the pump and watch the float valve rise
• As the float valve rises, the pump should turn on, and the water should discharge through the outlet pipe
• Go outside and inspect the outlet pipe
• Water should be flowing from the pipe and away from the home
• Contact a plumbing professional if the sump pump fails to operate during this inspection
• Install a battery backup system
• Choose a system with a battery replacement warning
• Replace batteries every two to three years

Call Us Today!

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help ® when you need storm damage restoration services. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Powerful Equipment Used to Detect and Restore Water Damage in Forest Grove?

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in water damage cleanup and restoration services in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry, to clean and restore water damage in homes and commercial businesses in Forest Grove. We used sensitive moisture detectors, powerful water extraction equipment, and air blowers to remove water quickly and efficiently.

Moisture Detection and Measurement

• Surface moisture meters
• Infrared imagery
• Evasive moisture detectors
• Video borescope

Water Extraction Equipment

We use powerful extraction equipment to speed the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Forest Grove needs water damage restoration services, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Comprehensive Water Damage Inspection and Assessment Process in Gaston?

12/6/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team conducts a thorough inspection and assessment of the water damage when we arrive at your Gaston home. This includes taking photographs of all affected areas and creating a moisture map of affected materials. We document all affected materials like sheetrock, flooring, and studs. 

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 water contamination level will affect the specific restoration processes we use.

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, property contents, and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpets.

• Block Furniture

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Gaston has a water damage emergency, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Expect to Happen When I Call With a Water Damage Emergency in Forest Grove?

11/8/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams have been restoring water damage for Forest Grove families and businesses for many years. Our technicians are standing by 24-hours a day, 365 days a week, to help you with water damage emergencies.

We follow a comprehensive, six-step process when restoring water damage. The first step in this process is speaking to you on the phone. We will ask you questions regarding the nature of your water damage emergency, and your answers tell us how many people and what equipment and resources to bring.

Here are the questions we will ask:

• 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)?

Water Damage Restoration Process

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today!

You never know when water may damage your home or business in Forest Grove. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is on call 24-hours a day to help you with water damage emergencies. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Water Damage Prevention Tips for Gaston Homes?

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our water damage restoration technicians in Hillsboro and Forest Grove are highly trained and have the experience and equipment to mitigate and restore water damage quickly and efficiently. Here are some tips from the Institute for Business and Home Safety to prevent water damage:

• Never pour grease down the drain
• Plant trees away from lateral drain lines to prevent roots from damaging piping
• If your home’s sewer system is connected to the city’s sewer system, a particular problem for older homes, or if you are located downhill or below street level, contact a plumbing professional to install a backflow prevention assembly into your sewer system
• Call a professional if you notice signs of a plumbing problem
• An increased monthly water bill
• Banging pipes
• Rust stains
• Moisture in the walls or on the floor
• Signs of wet soil erosion near the foundation

Water damage restoration process

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today!

Our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help ® when your Gaston home or commercial business has water damage. We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Will Happen When My Water Damage Is Restored in Hillsboro?

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in water damage restoration services in Washington County.

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team follows this six-step process for every water damage emergency:

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property quickly. This helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. Our professionals provide sanitizing treatments to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration may involve minor or major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Hillsboro needs water damage restoration services, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove can help. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Extensive Water Damage Found In Gaston?

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to property damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Washington County.

When you have a water damage emergency in Gaston, we can help! Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team uses industrial-grade water extraction and drying equipment to ensure the area is dried thoroughly. Here is a water damage timeline from our website describing the damage water can do to a structure over time.

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish
• Furniture begins to swell and crack
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain
• A musty odor appears

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp
• Metal begins to rust and corrode
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold
• Paint begins to blister
• Wood flooring swells and warps
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible

Call Us Today!

When your Gaston home or business has water damage, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Wet floors in Hillsboro stressing you out?

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Any type of damage inside of a house can be frustrating but one of the more stressful situations is a residential flood. In the middle of a disaster such as a flooded home in Hillsboro, it can be hard to figure out where to start when it comes to cleaning up and restoring the damaged area. That is where SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove comes in. We are ready to help when called and we are highly trained in property damage restoration and in this case, water damage specifically. Here are some steps that can be taken in the event of a flooded home/room:

• Make sure the floor is secure before you start walking through the water or wet areas
• If there is an exposed plug underneath the water, do not walk in that area because electricity can travel through the water
• Call SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove to help clean up the flooded area
• Wet floors might be slick so walk slowly to avoid falling and sustaining injuries

We want to make this as easy as possible for our homeowners and reduce the amount of stress you may be feeling in Hillsboro.

Pipe Breaks In Hillsboro Area Home

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Things like pipe breaks, dishwasher leaks, toilet overflows, and appliance failures occur all the time. And can happen anywhere and at any time. No matter how new your property is, how well maintained it is, or how much it is used. That is why our team of professionals in Hillsboro and Forest Grove are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to leap into action and help you make disaster and damage “Like it never even happened.”

Our teams have the training, experience, and equipment to restore your property after any type of damage and no matter the size of the disaster. Our crews are only a call away when disaster strikes, even if damage strikes at 3 am on a Saturday, we are Here. To Help.

Washing Machine Washout in Banks?

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Washing Machine Maintenance Tips for Banks.

Did you know that supply line failure is one of the top causes of water damage involving a washing machine? SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has seen the damage a burst supply line can do. Here are some washing machine supply line maintenance tips:

Conduct monthly inspections of the hot and cold washing machine supply lines.

• Look for signs the supply hose may be ready to fail—blisters in the hose, worn tubing, stress cracks, or a loose connection
• Replace the supply hose with a reinforced steel braided hose if it shows any sign of wear
• Tighten the connection if it feels loose. The most common site of failure is near the connection where the hose bends.
• Replace supply hoses every five years, even if there is no obvious deterioration or wear
• Some signs of deterioration may occur from the inside out and may not be visible until it is too late
• When replacing washing machine supply hoses, always choose a reinforced steel braided hose over the traditional un-reinforced rubber hose. These hoses will last longer and are far less likely to result in a catastrophic water loss.

Call Us!

When you have a water damage emergency, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is ready to respond 24-hours a day.  We’ll clean and restore your water damage in Banks, “Like it never even happened.” 

Water Damage Emergency in Gaston?

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

Gaston Water Damage Disaster.

At SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove we restore water damage disasters of all kinds and sizes. Because water is invasive, water can seep into cracks and crevices and can become an expensive repair when left untreated for too long. Our technicians have the specialized equipment and experience to quickly and efficiently mitigate any water damage emergency. Here are some tips for preventing plumbing failure from the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety (IBHS)

• Never pour grease down the drain
• Plant trees away from lateral drain lines to prevent roots from damaging piping
• If your home’s sewer system is connected to the city’s sewer system, or if you are located downhill or below street level, contact a plumbing professional to install a backflow prevention assembly into your sewer system
• Call a professional if you notice signs of a plumbing problem—an increased monthly water bill, banging pipes, rust stains, moisture in the walls or on the floor, and signs of wet soil erosion near the foundation

Call Us Today!

Plumbing failures can happen at any time with no warning. When your Gaston home or office experiences a water damage emergency of any size, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day.

Crawlspace Damage in Forest Grove

7/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Fores teams of on-call technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week when disaster strikes. Our teams are Here to Help.

Did you know that moisture can pass from a crawl space into a residential or commercial property through cracks in the walls, floors, and ceilings? This moisture creates conditions for potential mold or microbial growth. Along with identifying the source of water or moisture property owners can add vapor barriers to help reduce the moisture in those spaces.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is qualified to help with any water or moisture mitigation needed in your residential or commercial property.

 Our teams of trained and experienced restoration professionals have the skills to help you make any property damage “Like it never even happened.” Our teams of on-call technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week when disaster strikes. Our teams are Here to Help.

Different Types of Water Damage in Forest Grove

6/12/2021 (Permalink)

No matter the cause of the damage SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is always Here to Help

There are many different sources of water that can cause property damage in your home. Damage can happen from floor surges from strong storms, or heavy rains or sewage backups from a plugged-up toilet, or even a supply line failure from a refrigerator or dishwasher. Depending on the source of the water, it may be extremely unsanitary and exposure can lead to discomfort or disease?

So which source poses the risk?

1. External Flooding
2. Sewage Backup
3. Laundry Hose Breakage

The answer is both A External Flooding and B Sewage backup. External flood water can be unsanitary due to the dirt, germs, and other debris that may be in the floodwaters as well as backed up city sewer lines. Sewage backups can be hazards due to the nature of where the contamination started, the sewer. No matter the cause of the damage SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is always Here to Help

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Four Common Water Damage Areas In Your Hillsboro Home

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is always Here to Help when disaster strikes.

Every home and property has unique challenges when it comes to extracting water and drying out the structure. These are four of the most common areas and why they prove to be so difficult. 

 Duct Work 

Some duct systems made of fragile and porous materials make it difficult to dry and set up drying equipment. 

Attic Space

Attic spaces can be hard to get equipment into and may have electrical hazards. Oftentimes attic spaces require that insulation is removed to properly dry the space. 

Crawlspace 

Crawlspace may be hard to work in and place drying equipment into. Low temperatures can make it difficult to warm the space and properly dry it. 

Basements 

Many basements are unfinished with lots of porous materials that would need disposing of due to possible contamination in water. 

No matter the space or the cause of damage, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is always Here to Help when disaster strikes. We have crews who are on call 24/7 because we know that when disaster strikes there is no time to wait. 

Water Mitigation For Wallpapered Wall

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help you make the damage "Like it never even happened."

When walls are wet, wallpaper acts as a vapor barrier and restricts our ability to dry it. Special drying measures may be needed when this barrier is present.

Here are a few tips on helping to dry out your home faster and more efficiently when sheetrock covered in wallpaper is wet

• Peel away covering to expose wet drywall 
• If mold or microbial growth is present behind the wall, air movement can spread mold or microbial growth spores throughout the structure 
• Perforate the wall to ventilate 
• Remove baseboard to ventilate the wall cavity 

If your home suffers water damage from things like an appliance failure, a pipe break, or storm damage, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help you make the damage "Like it never even happened." 

Water Damage Impacts Insulation Quality In Hillsboro

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

If water damage is affecting your home or business, call SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Water damage in your home from things like a pipe break, roof leak, or storm damage can cause incredible damage in your home or incredible headaches for you and your family. 

Moisture and water can also damage and impact the insulation in your home like in your attic and walls. When wet, some insulation like fiberglass or expanded foam can be dried and saved. 

Insulation is measured by its R-value, R-value measures how well building insulation can prevent the flow of heat into and out of the home.

Blown insulation that is wet loses it's R-value or ability to insulate and should be replaced. 

If water damage is affecting your home or business, call SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Immediate Property Damage Restoration in Hillsboro

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

When property damage strikes, we know that it’s important to act as quickly as possible, that is why we at SERVPRO of Hillsboro /Forest Grove have the 1,4,8 rule.

1, we will contact you within 1 hour of being notified about your emergency property damage. Whether water, fire, sewage, or biohazard.

4, we will be on-site to your property damage within 4 hours of making contact with you, if you want us then.

8, we will contact your insurance company to provide them an update on the mitigation and remediation.

We know that not no two water damages are the same that is why we work with you to find the best, least invasive methods to remediate your property damage. Trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove to make it “Like it never even happened.”

When property damage turns your home into a disaster zone

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

We know that your home is likely the biggest investment you have ever made, so when property damage strikes it can be really frustrating and overwhelming. We know that when water damage strikes your home, there is no time to waste to start making it “Like it never even happened.”

When you call SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove we leap into action to get crews on the way to help you. No matter what time the property damage occurs or even what day we are ready to respond to your emergency damage. Our team of trained, experienced professionals will first assess the damage in your home and come up with the best plan to remediate the damage as quickly and efficiently as possible. If water damage strikes, call the team with over 20 years of experience, we are just a call away.

Astoria Hotel floods

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is available 24/7 for your home or business emergencies.

A hotel located in Astoria suffered from a gas line leak that resulted in catching on fire, which lead to the fire suppression system turning on and flooding the entire first floor. The fire suppression system did what it is designed for, it put the fire out, but it also created a lot of secondary damage. 

Once our crew arrived at midnight and didn't finish extraction until 7 in the morning. due to the size of the job we had a dedicated team that worked on this job until it was finish drying. 

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

We're dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is available 24/7 for your home or business emergencies. To learn more about our services, look at our before and after photos. 

26,000 gallons of water and dry in 6 days? How?

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here to Help.

This loss was really special to all of us here at SERVPRO of Hillsboro/ Forest Grove. From our operations manager to our technicians we were all pleasantly surprised when this building was dry in just 5 days.

This is a commercial medical building in Newberg, Oregon. It had a total of 26,000 gallons flow through it. The building owner was not informed of this loss until 10 days after it occurred. 

Due to the entire structure being saturated our crews had to act quickly with great ingenuity. Our program required we used 107 air movers and 6 extra-large dehumidifiers. However, due to power concerns, our technicians needed a lot of ingenuity to properly and safely set up the equipment to dry the structure. 

We Need To Act Quickly!

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here to Help.

We got a call for this water loss at nearly 5 pm. It came in as a "slow leak" from the washing machine, however, upon arrival, it was clear that this slow leak had been leaking for quite a while. 

While it may have taken the moisture a while to travel, once it reached the materials it quickly began to wick its way up the walls. In order to avoid any further damage, our crews had to quickly and efficiently remove the affected materials as to not have the wicking continue any further up the walls. We had the demolition completed within an hour and a half and our equipment was in place just over two hours after we received the call. 

To learn more about our before and afters and how we can help make it "Like it never even happened," check out our other before and after photos. 

Bathroom Water Damage in Hillsboro

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes your bathroom, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove to make it "Like it never even happened."

Water damages can be caused by many different causes all throughout your home like a dishwasher leak in the kitchen, a washing machine overflow in the laundry room, or a toilet overflow in the bathroom. 

A musty clinging smell in your bathroom could be a sign of hidden water damage. There are many possibilities that could cause the smell but there common causes of bathroom water damages are; 

1. A cracked shower tile leading to water getting into the shower pan and not draining properly.

2. Leaky seals around the base of a toilet or a leaking wax ring

3. Damaged or old caulking and grout  around sources of water that allow 

If you suspect that you have water damage in your bathroom, SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove are Here To Help. 

Water Damage Due To Heavy Rains

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Here in Oregon and the larger Pacific Northwest, rain is definitely something we are all used to. We know we get a lot of it, and that liquid sunshine just becomes part of normal life. But all of that rain and moisture can have a negative impact on our homes and other buildings. 

Heavy rains when coupled with strong winds can cause damage both big and small. Some of the damage can be unseen like a leaking window or door frame that allows for water to enter the home and saturate the wall cavity or framing. When the structure becomes wet it can be the perfect home for mold or microbial growth to form. If you see signs of water damage or suspect you have water damage in your home or office, call SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove to help you make it "Like it never even happened." 

When Temperatures Drop, Pipes Can Freeze in Hillsboro

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forst Grove

Temperatures in the Hillsboro area don’t normally get so cold, but each year we normally get a few days of snow and freezing temperatures. When we have a few days of below-freezing weather that is when frozen pipes are most likely to occur. Frozen pipes occur when temperatures are below freezing for a few days, causing water inside the pipes to freeze and expand. When temperatures rise again, the water melts and leaks through the newly formed split in the pipe. Leaks from frozen pipes occur regularly in the winter months and can cause a large amount of damage.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/ Forest Grove is Here To Help you when disaster strikes. We have crews who are ready to respond to emergencies around the clock because we know that property disaster never strikes when it is convenient for you.

Broken Pipes In Hillsboro

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

Your home is likely the biggest investment you have ever made or will ever make. It is where your family gathers, memories are made, and now in 2020 it has also become where we do work, school, and all aspects of life. So when your home is disrupted by water damage it's important that you have a local and trusted team in your community that you can call to help you. 

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove has been helping neighbors in our communities for nearly 20 years. We know that it is important to get help out right away, so we have crews who are on call around the clock so they can quickly respond to your home and begin helping to make it "Like it never even happened."

Winter Weather in Hillsboro

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

When winter weather takes its toll on your pipes, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove to make it "Like it never even happened."

As temperatures continue to drop, it is not uncommon for pipes to freeze. If you come home and find that you have had a pipe or pipes freeze there are a few things to do before help arrives. 

• Locate the after main shut-off valve 
• Open the faucet so thawing water can flow freely & relieve pressure 
• Warm the pipes with a space heater or hairdryer

If you find leaks are causing water damage, give SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove a call, our technicians have the experience, equipment, and training to help make it "Like it never even happened." 

We know that water damage does not normally occur when it is convenient for us, so we have crews who are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond. 

When Water Damage Strikes Your Forest Grove Area Home

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to make it "Like it never even happened."

Water damage can strike in your home at any time and on any day. Water damage can strike from a broken pipe, an appliance failure or even human error. If you experience a major water loss or flooding, never turn on electrical appliances that have been exposed to water. Repairs to electrical wiring must be performed by a pro. 

We here at SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here To Help you when disaster strikes. We have crews who are on call around the clock so we can quickly respond to your home or commercial property and begin restoration services. 

Remember if you suffer a water damage do not turn on electrical appliances that have been exposed to water. For more water damage safety tips read here. 

Prepare your home for cold weather

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

As we roll into the month of October we are getting closer to winter home owners will start to prepare for the cold weather. One of the main cause of loss during the winter season is pipe bursting. Even after the weather starts warming up home owners will find out they have a pipe leak from crack pipes caused by the cold weather.

Tips for Preparing Your Pipes for Winter Weather:

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninstalled areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets.
• Faucet covers are ideal for the outdoor faucets.
• Keep the temperature set to the same both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may get  a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F..

FROZEN PIPES - - A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

Water Vs. Fire - SERVPRO is here to mitigate both

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

Many residents in our service area are currently facing the eminent threat of wildfires. SERVPRO is not only here to restore your home after a natural disaster but we are also here to share tips regarding evacuations and protecting your home during a natural disaster. Ways to protect your home: Clean debris out of the gutters; remove yard debris surrounding your home; water the perimeter, bark, grass, and trees; Keep windows and doors closed at all times; Trim trees or Limbs that could cause damage; Repair loose window screens; Move flammable materials away from exterior walls. Preparing yourself for an evacuation: Gather important documents (Id’s, Birth Certificates, Social Security Cards, proof of insurance, medical records, passports, list of personal contact; Have a go bag ready. This should consist of at least one week's worth of clothing. Emergency food to last at least one week. As the threat of evacuation gets closer to heavily populated cities ensure you are staying updated with your local Sheriff’s office and fire department. Once a level 2 evacuation has been declared it is best to evacuate as quickly as possible. Mass evacuations during a level 3 evacuation can cause traffic jams and clog exit routes.As always, SERVPRO is here to help you restore your home and belongings after a natural disaster. Should your home be affected by smoke or fire damage we are available 24/7, 365 days a year for your needs. Please call our office anytime at 503-648-8513.

Cleaning your car during a pandemic

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Some of us take pride in cleaning our vehicles and some of us dread it. Unfortunately, during a global pandemic all of us have to make an effort to stop the spread of virus'. This includes routine preventative cleaning of your car!

Below I have outlined ways to keep you and your car virus free. 

• Routine cleanings of the exterior and interior
• Use CDC approved cleaner for the interior and exterior touch points. 
• Shampoo carpet, mats, and upholstery regularly
• Ensure that you are constantly cleaning door handles, steering wheel, center console, and dashboard

We have seen a lot of people using their rear view mirror as a place to put their masks when not being used. While this is a great idea to ensure you mask does not end up on the floor or in a dirty glove compartment it does come with its own problems. Believe it or not, rear view mirrors are a high touch point of most vehicles. When conducting your routine cleanings ensure that you allow dwell time for all touch points including rear view mirrors before wiping. 

Clean your HVAC vents, it could cost you!

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

We have recently seen a spike in Commercial fires due to HVAC vents not being properly maintained. To ensure your business does not lose crucial income due to a fire, please refer to the following tips.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25-40% of the energy* used for heating or cooling is wasted because air pollutants require an HVAC system to work harder to heat and cool a facility. According to the EPA, a buildup of just 0.42″ of dirt on a heating or cooling coil can result in a decrease of efficiency of 21%. Dirty duct-work can load filters quickly and lead to more stress on the air handler and potentially higher energy costs

1. Maintain filters.
   Use the highest efficiency air filter recommended by the manufacturer of your HVAC system and change filters regularly. If your filters become clogged, change them more frequently. Also, be sure you do not have any missing filters and that air cannot bypass filters through gaps around the filter holder.
2. Minimize dust.
   Dust and vacuum your home regularly, using the highest efficiency filter bags your vacuum cleaner can take – preferably HEPA bags. If you undertake dusty construction or renovation work in your home, seal off supply and return registers and do not turn your HVAC system on until you have cleaned up the dust.
3. Clean cooling coils and drain pans.
   Cooling coils, which are designed to remove water from the air, can be a major source of moisture contamination that can lead to mold growth in your HVAC system. Make sure that the drain pans under these coils drain properly and check any nearby insulation for wet spots. If you see substantial standing water and/or debris in these pans, contact a qualified service professional immediately. If your system includes an in-duct humidifier, be sure to follow manufacturer operating instructions.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

How can SERVPRO help your retail facility during an emergency.

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

We Work Quickly to Get You Back to Business As Usual

Time is crucial to saving your business when disaster strikes. Every hour spent on recovery is an hour lost of revenue and productivity. Our professionals are available 24-7/365 to help remeidate any damage, no matter the cause of the scale of the loss. SERVPRO Professionals are experienced in limiting business interruption, working after hours and around the clock to isolate the damage and restore your space so that you can continue business as usual. 

Types of Facilities:

• National Chain Stores
• Supermarkets
• Shopping Malls
• Department Stores
• Specialty Retailers

Our professionals are available 24-7/365 to help remediate any damage, regardless of the cause, scale of the loss, or the size of your facility. 

Have an emergency at your retail facility? – Call Us Now 1-800-SERVPRO

We Can Restore Your Facility to Pre-Loss Conditions

Whether it's a supermarket or department store, and whether the cause is a fire or a burst pipe, our team will work quickly to assess your cleanup needs and isolate the damage. SERVPRO Professionalsare experienced in working with retailers to ensure that all surfaces, displays and merchandise are restored to preloss conditions so that you can re-open your doors as soon as possible.

Our Experience Includes:

• Total Project Management
• Inventory Control and Documentation
• Facilities Cleaning and Restoration
• Flooding and Water Damage Cleanup
• Vandalism Cleanup
• Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning
• Mold Removal
• Odor Removal
• Smoke and Soot Cleanup
• Document and Records Recovery
• Electronics/Equipment Restoration

More than just water, SEWAGE!

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.

Toilet Overflow or Sewer Backup?
Call Today 1-800-SERVPRO

Water damage can be classified by the three types of contaminated water. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Hour Emergency Service

Water contaminated with sewage backup should be considered an emergency situation and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are water damage restoration specialists with specialized training, equipment and protective gear to safely restore your home or business.

The water loss process

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

In order to be prepared for our water mitigation process please see the 4 steps below!

Inspection:

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of the water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning any work.

Emergency Services:

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as your personal belongings and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step.

Monitoring:

To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated to you.

Restoration Services:

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets,  and clean affected areas of your property and belongings. A Final walk-through of the job site will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to preloss condition. 

Say Hello To Jim!

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Jim is one of our water Project Managers. He has been in restoration for nearly 10 years.  is originally from the East Coast. He moved to Portland in 2010. Jim is an avid hiker, mountain climber, and skier. He also enjoys trips to the coast both west coast and east coast.

Jim formerly worked as a Sales Manager at Jon Don’s Supply Distribution. Jon Don’s is a staple business for those in restoration services. After nearly 10 years of working with restoration equipment and sales he decided to change his career path and work directly with a restoration service provider.

Jim is a man of his word. One of the best customer service representatives and managers around. He prides himself on his ability to assist those in times of need, he just loves to help people. Jim is certified in Water Damage Restoration, Fire and Smoke Restoration, and Carpet Cleaning through the IICRC.

Prepare your business for winter weather

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Tips for preparing your business in case of winter weather:

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property or potentially a cause for personal injuries.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slipper or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present. 

Frozen Pipes

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe located, but typically the rupture is caused by back flow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addresses quickly. 

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Prepare your home for winter weather

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Tips for keeping your home prepared for winter weather are:

• Keep Cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home. 
• Consider shutting outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawlspace and turn it to off
• If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming affect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puff backs.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

The rain is upon us

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

ARE YOU READY? 
The rain is here again! We are all faced with the challenge of keeping the water outside of our structures. We need to be diligent with this, as water will migrate in through the smallest leaks in a building. These leaks can cause hundreds or thousands of dollars of damage and reduce the income to your business. The exterior envelope should have an annual inspection. 
When inspecting the roof, look for broken or missing shingles or any damaged components. Check the flashing around any pipes or vents that come through the roof. The rain gutters need to be clear of debris, and if they are equipped with heated cables those also need to checked. Make all the repairs before the rain, snow and freezing weather strikes. 
When inspecting the exterior walls of your building, look for any damage to the siding, deteriorated or missing caulking around the doors and windows, make all necessary repairs. 

 Preventative maintenance check list 
• Door and window seals 
• Rain gutters 
• Rain gutter drains 
• Roof 
• Flashing round chimneys 
• Roof drains 
• Clear yard debris 
• Clean parking lot drains 
• Clear all exterior drains   •Foundation grading 

• Leaking plumbing 
• Missing insulation 
• Clean the area around the sump pump 
• Test the sump pump 
• Check the foundation vents 
• Make sure the vapor barrier is intact 
• Check for pest 
• Make sure the plumbing is properly insulated  If you have any questions or need help in any of these areas, let me know and I will gladly be of assistance. As a FREE service, I would be happy to meet with you and your maintenance staff to discuss which areas to check, and the red flags that can alert you to issues before they affect your business.

When NOT to repair your roof

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

We all know how hard it can be to line out a contractor to work on your home projects during the summer. 

However, if you are planning on repairing or replacing your roof make sure you have those repairs completed during the summer. 

This spring and fall we have worked on several claims that were caused by water intrusion from an  open roof. 

If you are working on the roof yourself, ensure that your roof has the proper tarp and seal. 

If you are working with a contractor to repair your roof schedule with them far in advance. This will ensure that you are home is taken care of prior to the bad weather coming. 

And remember, if your home suffers a water loss of any kind please call SERVPRO!

Putting out a fire with water

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

With summer just around the corner we want to share some safe outdoor fire tips on how to properly put out a fire using water.

• Be cautious when you are intoxicated and near a fire
• Do not throw trash or debris into a lit fire
• Do not use Accelerants to light your fire
• Do not toss aerosols, bottles, plastics, or malleable metals into the fire.

Doing so can cause shrapnel to be project into the air and potentially cause injury.

• Do not leave the fire pit unattended
• Do not leave children or pets unattended near a fire pit

• Do make sure you have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher readily available
• Do keep your fire pit 10 feet away from combustible items, buildings, or other landscaping
• Ensure that the fire pit is covered to some extent
• Do not use a fire pit on a deck or under a covered patio
• Ensure that your fire pit is at least 6 inches tall
• Do keep a shovel near by to smother a fire if necessary
• Dispose of ashes in a safe metal container used solely for ashes.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you.

If your home or business suffers from mold growth, call us today at (503) 648-8513

SERVPRO Emergency response

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

The cleanup and restoration begins with a phone call. Our national call center is fully staffed 24 hours a day and ready to dispatch the nearest SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to your home or business. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today 1-800-SERVPRO

A water damage event can be traumatic and when you call, we understand you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. Our representative will lead you through a series of questions to better understand your needs.

SERVPRO specializes in water damage—in fact, SERVPRO is the premier water damage restoration company in the U.S. and Canada.

What to Expect

When you call, a call center representative will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. Armed with the details of your water event, we’ll dispatch a nearby SERVPRO Franchise Professional who will respond immediately.

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)?

Water damage inspection

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

The water damage restoration process begins with a detailed inspection of your property, including a damage assessment. The SERVPRO Franchise Professional is determining the scope of the damage so he or she can develop an appropriate plan of action.

They Identify and Stop the Water Source

They check for the source of water in your home and business and stop it. The water source must be stopped before the drying process can begin.

• Stop the Source
• Check for Contaminated Water

They Identify the Type of Water

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals must identify the category and classification of water to restore your property safely to industry specifications. The type of water contamination will affect the specific restoration processes used to restore your property.

• White / Category 1 Water
• Gray / Category 2 Water
• Black / Category 3 Water

They Survey the Extent of the Water Damage and Inspect the Premises

They inspect and test your home to discover the extent of the damage. Additionally, they will look for safety concerns and explain them to you. If you are aware of any safety issues, such as asbestos or lead, please share them.

• Survey Damage
• Complete Safety Inspection

They Move or Block Furniture

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

John's Tip of the Month

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

IS YOUR FACILITY AT RISK?

I found this Risk Assessment Questionnaire and I believe that it is good tool to use to help stay on top of the maintenance and operations of your facility.*

This assessment covers Fire Protection, Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, Operational Issues and Community Rooms.

 Over the years we have restored many businesses that had fallen behind on their maintenance and had AVOIDABLE DISASTERS!

Note: State and Local government generally establish inspection schedules as part of building codes. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establish requirements related to workplace safety. Use of this questionnaire should take into account the various regulatory requirements for inspection and testing. Also, a building’s use and occupancy, including visitors, may determine the level or risk—the presence of children and/or elderly or disabled persons may increase some risk.

Risk Assessment Questionnaire

FIRE PROTECTION

• Is there an automatic detection system
• Are there smoke and fire alarm systems
• Are the systems inspected and serviced annually
• Are there sufficient number of fire extinguishers of the appropriate class
• Are the fire extinguishers readily identifiable
• Are the fire extinguishers inspected and recharge annually
• Are there automatic sprinklers and/or standpipe and hoses in the building
• Are they inspected annually
• Is the fire suppression systems tested according to the local codes

 ELECTRICAL

• Are all of the breaker and fuses enclosed in metal cabinets that close securely
• Are all circuits easily identifiable
• Are all of the fuse or breakers sized for the equipment or lighting they control
• Is the area in front of the panels assessable
• Are there reoccurring problems with fuses or breakers being continually tripping
• Do metal-enclosed switch gears receive scheduled preventative maintenance
• Are ground fault interrupters (GFIs) utilized in potentially wet or damp areas
• Are surge protectors used on phone systems, computers, and office equipment? They are generally required on leased equipment
• Are extension cords use for permanent power sources in lieu of hard wiring or adding an outlet
• Are space heaters being used to augment the HVAC system
• Are tenants reminded not use extension cord as permanent power sources and not to use space heaters
• Is there proper space around and above recessed lighting
• If there is a back power supply is inspected and test on a regular schedule i.e. backup batteries or a generator
• Are the electrical rooms and cabinets that accessible from common areas kept locked.

PLUMBING & DRAINS

• Are water and drain pipes, seals, etc., inspected periodically for leaks
• Are pipes properly insulated (this very important due to the fact we don’t have hard freezes)
• Clear rain gutters annually
• Clean and clear storm water run-off drains bi-annually

HVAC

• Has the HVAC system been inspected and serviced with in the past year
• Is the boil’s low water cutoff/water supply flushed out every month during the heating season
• Dose the boiler meet fire code requirements concerning noncombustible material and proper fire rated doors and closers
• Is the boiler room properly ventilated
• Is the boiler room inspected periodically to ensure that no combustible materials are stored there
• Are vents and chimney flues inspected annually for clear passage
• Is there a program in place for cleaning ductwork and diffusers
• Are windows checked periodically to ensure that they open and close properly and fasteners are in good operating condition
• Are windows system checked periodically to ensure that they are not deteriorating
• Is installed window-washing apparatus and/or scaffolding properly attached to the roof decking

OPERATIONAL ISSUES

• Dose the building have Emergency Ready Profile (emergency procedures manual)
• Dose the building have a safety committee
• Do building staff receive appropriate training related to blood borne pathogens, first aid, and other emergency response subjects

• COMMUNITY ROOM

• What is the maximum occupancy of your community room Is it posted
• Are exits keep clear
• When positioning furniture for functions, are clear aisles maintained for quick and easy egress in an emergency
• Is the range and or microwave oven maintained in a clean and manner? Are orifices in gas ranges kept clear
• Are there curtains or any other combustible material near the range
• Is there a properly sized and vented range hood
• Is grease periodically cleaned from the hood and ductwork
• Has a Class B fire extinguisher been provided in the kitchen area
• Are the coils on the refrigerator/freezer kept clean of dirt and lint

*Source DexerityDynamics

Brace yourselves, the rain is coming!

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

ARE YOU READY? 
The rain is here again! We are all faced with the challenge of keeping the water outside of our structures. We need to be diligent with this, as water will migrate in through the smallest leaks in a building. These leaks can cause hundreds or thousands of dollars of damage and reduce the income to your business. The exterior envelope should have an annual inspection. 
When inspecting the roof, look for broken or missing shingles or any damaged components. Check the flashing around any pipes or vents that come through the roof. The rain gutters need to be clear of debris, and if they are equipped with heated cables those also need to checked. Make all the repairs before the rain, snow and freezing weather strikes. 
When inspecting the exterior walls of your building, look for any damage to the siding, deteriorated or missing caulking around the doors and windows, make all necessary repairs. 

 Preventative maintenance check list 
• Door and window seals 
• Rain gutters 
• Rain gutter drains 
• Roof 
• Flashing round chimneys 
• Roof drains 
• Clear yard debris 
• Clean parking lot drains 
• Clear all exterior drains   •Foundation grading 

Winter is just around the corner, be prepared!

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

You may not always see a broken pipe, but you will hear it!

With the colder months just a few week away we all need to start thinking about the threats during the fall/winter months.

Frozen pipes are often those exposed to the cold weather, such as those outside of your home, or in cold areas, such as basements, garages, and kitchen cabinets. 

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located. Typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

To prevent pipes from freezing, here are a few steps to take according to the American Red Cross

• Be sure to completely drain water from swimming pool or sprinkler lines. As well as hoses outside of the home
• Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air near the plumbing.
• When the weather is extremely cold, let water drip from faucets that may come from an exposed pipe. 
• Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night.

As always, SERVPRO is a 24 hour water restoration company. If you do suffer a water loss this winter please call us at 503-648-8513 at any time of the day!

Water can and will affect the contents of your home

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Water can and will damage anything in its path.

Water losses are almost never something you can foresee. Especially when it comes to your washer supply line breaking and causing nearly 200,000 gallons of water to flood their home. While the home can be saved with a quick enough response team, some furniture may not. 

You always want to ensure that your most valuable items are up and secure away from possible flood or water intrusion that way occur. Keeping filing cabinets away from walls, ensure all contents are picked up and put away, and any important documents or memorabilia should be stored in a safe place away from flood levels. 

Any Water Damage Is Bad For Your Home

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Any water damage is bad, especially when the water contains potentially harmful bacteria that can affect the health of you and your family. Toilet overflows, sewage backups, and other dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly messes; these bio-hazardous damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a home, as well as the moisture necessary to support their growth.

Your SERVPRO professionals understand how disruptive black water damages can be for your entire family. For this reason SERVPRO offers 24-hour emergency response, and under normal circumstances, will have trained uniformed technicians on-site of a water damage within four hours to begin emergency mitigation services. By responding quickly with a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, your local SERVPRO professionals can help you regain control quickly while drying and deodorizing, as well as protecting their home and belongings.

DO's and DONT's of water damage in your home

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

If you ever have a water leak and as you stand there thinking of what to do, the water is at your ankles now and you are more worried and confused than ever. Here are some helpful tips to get through until SERVPRO arrives to help.

DO

• Shut off the water main, if you are unsure of how to do this call a certified person to come and help.
• Turn of all electricity to the affected areas
• Remove as much standing water as possible
• Remove and dry as much standing water on wood furniture. Remove any paper items that may have been affected.
• Remove any slip on covers for furniture to ensure a proper drying process.
• Put blocks or aluminum paper underneath furniture that was moved to dry out an area. 
• Moving all paintings, computers, documents and any other valuable items to a dry unaffected area of the property.
• Use clothes pins to pick up and loose or handing curtains or drapery.
• Move and hang anything made of fur, or skins to a dry unaffected area for proper drying.

DON'T

• Do not return to areas where there is an immediate threat of danger such as, areas that still have electricity and are underwater, or areas where black waters have risen
• Do not return to areas where electronics have come in contact with water. 
• Do not leave books, newspapers, or other articles with colored print near clothes, carpets, or other textiles.
• Do not leave rugs over installed carpets as this can cause staining from the rug to the carpet.
• DO NOT use your vacuum to extract any water from your property.
• Do not turn on electronics that have come in contact with water
• Do not turn on floor lights that have been affected by standing water. 

John's Tip of the Month

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

You just got home, and all that’s on your mind is everything you need to do to finish your day. As you step into your home you are greeted with a torrent of water rushing out the door.  Unannounced to you the Gremlins snuck in while you were away, just to ruin your day. First call SERVPRO (503) 648-8513, and then call your insurance agent. SERVPRO and your agent will work together to make it “Like it never even happened.” Now that help is on the way there are some things that can be done to help reduce your loss.

These emergency tips will assist you in taking the proper action until our crews arrive. Please follow these Do’s and Don’ts to help reduce damage, possible bodily injury and to increase the chances of successful restoration.

Things to do:

• 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 tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place the furniture on wood blocks, plates, plastic or foil to keep from direct contact to the moisture.
• Remove to a safe dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Hang draperies with plastic coat hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting, floors, or furniture.
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
• Avoid all contact with sewage.

Things not to do:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Leave books, newspaper, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet, floors or furniture.
• 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 carpet or floors, especially concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixture of the ceiling is wet.
• Spread contamination by walking areas affected by sewer.
• Tur on the HVAC system on this can spread contaminated air throughout the home.
• Use household fans to dry the structure this also can spread contaminated air throughout the home.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

Tip of the Month is provided as a courtesy of SERVPRO® by John Lawrence.

Call 971-371-0566 or email at johnl@SERVPROhfyt.com

Water Extraction is Important in Water Remediation

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Our new HVE3000 Extractor

When a water damage occurs in a home or business, the first step in water mitigation is to remove all of the water in the affected area as quickly as possible. this will stop the water from spreading to other rooms, as well as reducing the risk of permanent damage to hardwood floors and furniture.

When extracting water from a wet surface that may not have standing water will remove any water that is trapped in the cracks and grooves of the surface. this speeds up the drying process rather than only using a dehumidifier.

The process of water not only help prevent damage to the hardwood and furniture, but also reduce the risk of mold growth on the structure as standing water and damp areas are ideal for mold growth

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Preparing your pipes for the winter

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

As we roll into the month of October we are getting closer to winter home owners will start to prepare for the cold weather. One of the main cause of loss during the winter season is pipe bursting. Even after the weather starts warming up home owners will find out they have a pipe leak from crack pipes caused by the cold weather.

Tips for Preparing Your Pipes for Winter Weather:

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninstalled areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets.
• Faucet covers are ideal for the outdoor faucets.
• Keep the temperature set to the same both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may get  a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F..

FROZEN PIPES - - A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

Tips while you wait for help

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

What to do while you wait for SERVPRO to arrive for water loss?

          When water damage happens after a bad storm or plumbing issue, you could know about it a few minutes or days after it starts. Here are some tips to help you while you wait for our crews to reach your property:

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Once SERVPRO arrives they will determine if it is safe to turn the power back on.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture to a safe place
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. This help prevent any further water damage.
• If you have any fans use them! Have the airflow blowing on the wet material, this helps the water from spreading quickly.

• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet
• To avoid injuries do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. The ceiling drywall has a potential to fall.

Contact SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for emergency service when your house or business have water damage at 503-648-8513. We are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

WOW! What a Winter

6/6/2017 (Permalink)

Wow! What a Winter! 

Are You Ready?

12/27/2016 (Permalink)

ARE YOU READY?

Guess What? The rain is here again! We are faced with the challenge of keeping the water outside of your structures. We need to be diligent with this as water will migrate in for though the smallest leaks in a building. These leaks can cause hundreds or thousands of dollars of damage and reduce the income to your business. The exterior envelope should have an annual inspection.

When inspecting the roof look for broken or missing shingles or any damaged components of the roof. Check the flashing around any pipes or vents that come through the roof. The rain gutters need to be clean of debris and if they are equipped with heated cables they need to checked. Make all the repairs before the rain, snow and freezing weather strikes.

When inspecting the exterior walls of your building look for any damage to the siding, deteriorated or missing caulking around the doors and windows. Make all the repairs.

Psychrometrics : The Science of Drying

8/6/2015 (Permalink)

Proactive planning with an ERP and Drybook documention on site gives control back before chaos even has a chance.

Psychrometrics : The Science of Drying

Psychrometry is the study of the air and its properties. The properties of temperature, humidity, vapor pressure and dew point are measured to evaluate air conditions in the structure, enabling a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional to create the proper atmosphere for more efficient drying.  

Water can damage materials in two ways:  first, by absorption through direct contact with water; and second, absorption of moisture from the air. Measuring the moisture content of the air is critical to the drying process.  

At SERVPRO we employ several tools and techniques to aid the drying process and accelerate it as well.  Our most important asset is our people and the knowledge they bring to the damaged property.  We are highly trained teams of IICRC Certified Water damage restoration professionals.  This means when you call SERVPRO you are getting the highest quality of professionals to address any size disaster.  We are very proud to be a leader in the emergency services and disaster restoration industry.