Expect the Unexpected of Wintertime

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

Pipes are susceptible to breakage during deep freezes.

When you live in the southeast of America we can enjoy some great weather year round, but when things get bad, they can get really bad.  So we do our best here at SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston and Dorchester County to prepare our community for those instances where weather can turn nasty and wreak havoc across the region.  During the summer and fall months we are in the height of our storm season, and hurricane season, which is a time of year for those living in the Southeast to be generally concerned about storm potential on daily basis, but it’s in the winter months when we can let our guard down, and be completely unprepared for those blasts of chilly air. 

Frigid temperatures are not typically seen across the South and in South Carolina we can go through mild winters where we don’t see many days, or nights of sub-freezing weather but when it happens it can cause a lot of trouble for properties that are generally unprepared for cold weather.  We do not insulate our homes and pipes the way those who see harsher winters may.   Which means we are more susceptible to freezing weather causing pipe breakage.  When that occurs flooding is imminent.  That is why it always really important to know who to call when your property has water damage caused by frozen pipe breaks.

SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston and Dorchester County are experts in quick mitigation response and provide 24/7 emergency extraction services for water incursions caused by frozen pipes.  Whether the property is a commercial business or a residential home, we can respond to your disaster in minutes.  Across the area, from North Charleston to Summerville, and from Cane Bay to Moncks Corner, we have you covered for Emergency Services.  It’s incredibly important that your property is stabilized after a water incursion and dried out before the temperatures increase to warmer weather, when mold growth becomes a bigger risk for increased damage. 

The cold and dry weather of winter does not necessarily promote mold growth, so a moisture issue caused by a frozen pipe breakage might not seem like a big problem if the pipe has been fixed and most of the water has been dried up.  Make sure you have an expert like SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston and Dorchester County come out and do a moisture assessment to make sure all materials in your property are truly dry.  This will reduce any risk of mold growth when Spring returns, and with it, the warmer weather and humidity.

Always be prepared for freezing temperatures by making sure your critical infrastructure at your property is properly insulated and protected from cold weather.  One way to make sure your property is protected is to inspect your plumbing and add insulation where possible.  It’s also a good idea to keep interior faucets and spigots slowly running during freezing temperatures to assure the water maintains flow and does not freeze up.  You can also wrap spigots on the exterior of the property by wrapping them in cloth and plastic to help prevent freezing.  

If you think you have water damage caused by frozen pipes call us today for an assessment.  And for pipe breaks that have caused standing water in your property call our emergency response team right away.  Our team is ready to respond 24/7 all year long, call us today at 843.552.1226.

Did the big Christmas Chill leave your stockings full of water and ice?

1/5/2023 (Permalink)

Exposed pipes in freezing temperatures can cause them to burst and rupture.

The Lowcountry saw a bitter cold front move in for this year’s Christmas weekend and to finish off 2022.  The cold front brought with it below freezing temperatures during the holiday weekend which caused pipes to freeze all across the region.  The havoc the cold spell wreaked unfortunately caused a few pipes to burst and our phones to start ringing.  Here at SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston and Dorchester County we have seen many of these types of disasters throughout the years, so we wanted to share a few tips with the community to keep your home protected from freezing temperatures.

Typically homes in the Lowcountry are built one of two ways, on a concrete slab or over a crawlspace.  In both cases your home is connected to a water source, either from the city or a well, underneath the ground.  When you have a crawlspace your pipes are typically running beneath the home and are exposed to the air.  With a concrete slab your pipes will be underground, beneath the slab, and then running up into the home.  Both types of homes are susceptible to freezing temperatures and pipe failure due to ice expanding within the pipe, causing the pipe to burst.

There are ways to prevent your pipes from bursting when we have freezing temperatures sustained for over a twenty-four-hour period.  The best thing you can do is insulate your pipes.  You can do this yourself or have a professional do it, if it hasn’t already been done.  With pipes in a crawlspace this is a smart idea to get done right away.  Its good added protection and can absolutely prevent a disaster but you should still consider following these additional steps of precaution.

Another way to keep your pipes from freezing is to make sure you leave your faucets dripping.  Leaving the hot water side of each faucet left to slow drip will allow warm water to consistently flow through the pipes and preventing them from freezing over.  You especially want to do this with the faucets on the furthest side of the house from where the water comes in because those pipes have the longest runs of piping exposed to freezing temperatures.  It’s also good to make sure the cabinets under sinks and faucets are left open.  This will help the pipes directly below the faucet stay a bit warmer. 

For any outdoor spigots it’s important to detached any hose and bring them inside.  Make sure the valve on the outdoor spigots are shut tight.  It is a good idea to cover the spigot with either a combination of fabric and bags or with a protective cover that they sell at hardware stores.   

These are just a couple tips that help prevent major disasters from happening in your home.  Always make sure you keep your Property Insurance information handy and up-to-date, and it’s never a bad idea to also keep our number handy as well.  Flooding your home with water from a burst pipe in the middle of winter is a disaster that needs to be mitigated right away to prevent further damage and expense.  Always be prepared, always think ahead.

At SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston and Dorchester County we provide 24/7 Emergency Water Removal Service and Disaster Restoration, and we always have a team member ready to take your call, every day and minute of the year. 

If you think you have water damage caused from a frozen pipe bursting please call us at 843.552.1226.

Staying Ahead of Leaks and Floods

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

After removing the drywall we discovered the culprit of water damage and mold issues. Always make sure your plumbing is inspected annually.

So many of our customers who have experienced water damage in their homes typically find out that it was preventable and avoidable with a bit of maintenance.  Here at SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston and Dorchester County we look not only to help you after the disaster but we also try to help you before the disaster strikes.  This is a reminder to always make sure you are on top of your property and the maintenance required to keep it in top shape.

The little investments that you make now can save you a lot of money and headaches down the road.  One way to prevent disaster is by making sure your plumbing throughout your home or business is running properly and not experiencing any leaks or decay.  It’s a good idea to either check your pipes yourself or have a professional plumber come in for an inspection. 

Many leaks start in the bathroom so that’s the first place you want to keep an eye on.  Look for bad calking around your sinks, toilet and bathtub.  That is something you can remove and replace yourself with some proper online instruction, at minimal cost.  It’s also important to check the grout in the bathtub, on the floors and walls, this assures that water isn’t escaping and causing issues behind or underneath your tile, this is a typical issue that causes a lot of mold where you may not be able to see, yet.  And always check the piping under sinks as that is another cause of leak and moisture intrusions.

If you have a crawlspace have it inspected at least once a year to assure there is no damage to your pipes underneath the house.  You will also want your HVAC checked as well, we find a lot of ducts that are not properly fitted and allow condensation and moisture to build up, which causes mold and water damage. 

And another important area to have inspected and maintained throughout the year is your water heater.  This is one of the number one culprits that cause flood and water damage.  Please make sure your water heater is properly drained and flushed out annually.  This will prevent sediment from building up in the tank and causing it to prematurely decay and breakdown. 

SERVPRO cares about our customers and making sure they are aware of their responsibilities for homeownership or property management.  These basic tips above can save you from a disaster and a lot of headaches down the road. 

Flooding and the Ramification of Waiting Too Long

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Waiting too long to extract water and start the drying process on residual moisture can cause serious damage to your home and property.

If you have been the victim of flooding, then you are in a race against time, damage and mold.  It is never too late to start the process of mitigation and restoration when your home or property have been impacted by water incursions.  But waiting to respond and fix the situation can make your life that much more difficult if you wait too long.

One of the biggest challenges of water incursions is drying everywhere that moisture is now residing.  Water loves porous materials like cloth, wood and drywall where the water can be soaked up like a sponge.  Unfortunately, the longer it takes to extract water and start the drying process the higher the propensity for bigger problems to start arising.

Water damage can start ruining your home and property within the first 24 hours of getting wet.  Mold will begin growing, and damage will worsen to floors, walls and electrics unless the extraction of water and drying processes has begun.  If water is left unattended long enough, it can even start eating through concrete, and wood will begin to rot within a month in some cases.  And if a leak persists through multiple floors you will see additional damage as the water collects between floors and causes infrastructure collapse of insulation and ceiling panels. 

If you have walked into a water loss at your property you will want to call your insurance company as soon as possible, that’s the first step.   The second step is to call a water restoration company like us to come out and assess the situation, start emergency water extraction and mitigation processes right away.   The sooner you start extracting and drying up the water, the sooner you stop the process of damage and mold growth.

Always keep our emergency phone number somewhere handy, or save our number in your cellphone.  Saving precious minutes can greatly impact the cost of the water loss and the necessary work and repairs that will be required to fix your home or business.     

Emergency 24/7 phone line: 843-552-1226

Get to Know Your Water Heater

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

We worked on a home that had a busted water heater in the attic that flooded through all floors causing severe damage throughout the house.

One common issue that could potentially save a lot of people from a lot of trouble is making sure you know where your water heater is located in your home, and making sure its maintained.  If you want to prolong you water heater’s efficiency and longevity, follow these useful tips.

The first tip is knowing where your water heater is located.  Often it is located conveniently in your garage but sometimes it can be in very inconspicuous places like a closet, and sometimes it can even be in your attic.  If your water heater is in an attic or closet within the home, it’s even more critical to make sure it’s being taken care of and well maintained.  We have seen our fair share of busted water heaters in the attic that have cause severe damage to entire homes as the water floods through each floor.  Get familiar with its location, and know how to shut off the water valve to the water heater in case of a leak or busted water heater, this will save you immeasurable time and money lost.

The next tip is to have a professional come out and check the water heater.  There are a few things that a professional will do to make sure the water heater is functioning optimally.  The first thing they will do is make sure the temperature-pressure-release valve is tested and working properly.  Then they will check the anode rod, this rod runs inside the tank and it attracts iron, limestone and other minerals present in the water so that it corrodes before your tank does.  Having this replaced is relatively inexpensive and it can save many years on the lifespan of your water heater tank.

Another important step to maintaining your water heater is to drain it and wash out any sediment.  This also helps the water heater run more efficiently and last longer as mineral sediment is removed.  A professional will also recommend that the temperature on the water heater’s thermostat(s) be lowered to increase energy efficiency.   Adjusting the thermostat and also adding insulation around the pipes and water heater itself can also increase lifespan, efficiency and energy savings.

Some of these tips can be done yourself with the right tools and proper instruction, there are great how-to guides for maintaining water heaters on the internet and through your water heater’s manufacturer.  If you don’t feel comfortable and confident then please call a professional plumber to come out and take a look at your water heater. 

Following these steps to maintaining your water heater can save you from severe damage and major headaches.  It’s better to replace or fix a water heater before it’s too late and you need us to come and extract the flood waters.    

April Showers Bring... MOLD?

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Got Mold? We are here to help!

Mold and mildew are no strangers to us here in Charleston!  And it is a problem that we take very seriously here at SERVPRO of Dorchester County.  Do you have mold lurking behind your walls, around windows, or on vents? Mold can grow just about anywhere there is the presence of moisture. Isn't it enough that we deal with the high humidity here in the Lowcountry?  Here are just a few ways mold can be an issue in your home or business: 

• Leaks in windows, roofs and piping can cause a mold issue on and around the leaky area.
• Flooding, whether caused by mother nature or an appliance issue, is another source of moisture that can cause growth issues.
• Once mold gets into paper products or wood, it grows fast and often these items cannot be salvaged. 
• Dust, paint, wallpaper, drywall, insulation, carpet, and any type of fabric or upholstery. All susceptible to encouraging microbial growth.
• Suffer from allergies?  Don't even get us started on the list of issues here!  

If you feel your home or business has a moisture issue that may be causing mold growth and damage, we are here to help. Call us today for an inspection! We have professionally trained technicians ready and happy to help.  843.552.1226

Don't Let That Water Damage Turn To Mold

1/28/2022 (Permalink)

Faster to any disaster! Here for you 24/7 (843) 552-1226

It takes no more than 48 hours after water damage occurs for mold to begin to grow. This is why dealing with a leak or flood in your home in a timely manner is so critical.  We pride ourselves in our rapid response time and treat a loss in every home as if it were our own. However, some water damage cannot be seen right away and growth is inevitable. 

Got Mold?

If you encounter a mold problem evaluate the size of the problem. The Environmental Protection Agency suggests if the affected area is larger than 10 square feet, it is best to bring in professionals.

Be sure that the company you bring in are highly trained and certified in the following areas:

• Applied microbial remediation
• Water damage restoration
• Applied structural drying

Sometimes, minor mold issues can be successfully resolved by a homeowner on their own, but it is always in your best interest to talk to the professionals to ensure the safest resolution to the problem.

At SERVPRO® of Greater Northern Charleston, our mold damage specialists are trained and certified experts in mold remediation. If your home or business is experiencing a mold issue, contact us to begin the mold remediation process. 843-552-1226 

Causes of Water Damage

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

Here for you 24/7!

Are you a North Charleston SC resident?  If so, you are well aware that water plays a huge role in our lifestyles here.  Most of the time…that is a good thing. But, when the water is causing damage to our homes, it’s an entirely different story.

Water damage can occur from a myriad of circumstances. In many cases, water damage happens about when an issue goes unnoticed. It may take weeks or months for the damage to show up. Time is of the essence when dealing with any water damage problems, and you need to act immediately. This water can destroy not only your ceiling, furniture, and carpets, but also irreplaceable personal goods, precious family possessions

When dealing with water damage, immediate action is critical to minimizing damage. The franchise experts of SERVPRO in North Charleston, South Carolina, respond immediately and utilize advanced resources and techniques to remove the water hastily. Additionally, they closely observe and detail the drying process to ascertain that your property is dried to industry standards.

Some of the common water damage issues include:

Structural Damage from Leaking Roofs

Roof leaks are among the most responsible causes of water damage in South Carolina and a common problem that homeowners face. Breaks in the material used for roofing, ineffective seals on the vents, or even chimneys could cause water leaks. When saturated with water, the structural integrity of the wood is compromised. Metals, also, when they rust, result in structural instability.  Water seepage inside walls, concrete or wood framing, or the foundation weakens the home’s or business’s structure, potentially leading to collapse. Non-structural water damage to the ceiling and drywall can also wreak havoc in your home.

Leaking or bursting pipes

Leaking or bursting pipes are a common cause of water damage in all homes. Toilets and drains that get backed up and blocked cause undue pressure in the pipes, causing them to leak or burst. Additionally, improper functioning of garbage disposals and rusty pipes are also more susceptible to leaking.

Malfunctioning Bathroom and Kitchen Appliances

Tubs leak water around the edges or in cracks found in the tiles as well as in the fixture or faucet areas. Refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters and all predisposed to deterioration. When household appliances get old, pipes start to wear and tear, and their hoses become fragile. Regular maintenance and monitoring of all appliances is critical to preventing unnecessary water damage.

Sewage Leaks and Spills

Sewage cleanup by a professional is imperative. Sewage spills lead to seepage of toxic gray or black water that contains human and animal contaminations or biological waste and can pose health risks. Therefore, restoration should always be completed by trained water damage professional.

Weather Related Problems

While we do not have any control over natural weather-related disasters we can embrace all the preventative measures possible in advance to limit their effect on your property. Hurricanes, sudden storms, and flash floods can all elicit water buildup. Contact our water damage specialists in North Charleston, South Carolina, as soon as possible to help fix the damage and prevent additional damage.

We Are Here To Help.

At SERVPRO, our goal is to restore your property to its original form and minimize the damage. We guarantee exceptional customer experience, and for this, we avail our certified cleanup experts to you 24 hours a day, seven days each week.. Our customer service is the best in the industry and will help you deal with your insurance company, reducing the stress and making the process smooth.

Our team of water damage experts is always on standby 24-hours a day to offer emergency support and fix water-related disasters when they arise. Contact us anytime at (843) 552-1226 or request our help through our Contact Us page on our website.

Water Mitigation in a Nutshell!

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, disasters happen. Are you ready?

Property disasters are a certainty. They can be minor or significant, but damage issues are a guaranteed part of property ownership.

Damages and their repair becomes more complicated when water is added to the mix. Rainwater can spill over and enter into places that it should not be, from places such as the roof, attic, crawlspaces, or basements. Water build-up can wreak havoc as it continues to rise and accumulate.  A dishwasher malfunction or burst pipe can create a world of chaos if it is not dealt with as swiftly as possible.

These are merely a few of the instances that compel a property owner to seek out water restoration professionals.  In any circumstance, the mitigation team will show up on site to evaluate the extent of the damage, and determine the best course of action.  Though jobs vary drastically, all follow the same basic process.  Here is what you can expect:

• Communication of drying plan with property owner and completion of appropriate documentation.
• Extraction of any excess water.
• Removal of any materials or contents that cannot be salvaged. A couple of examples are carpet padding and drywall that are fully saturated.
• Disinfectant application to all affected areas and materials in order to prevent any mildew or mold growth during the drying process.
• Fans and dehumidifiers set strategically to promote the most efficient drying timeline.
• Schedule to monitor the drying progress over the following day.
• Final equipment removed upon all materials drying to IICRC standards.
• Final loss report and supporting documents sent to insurance adjuster for payment.

At SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston always prioritize restoration over replacement during water mitigation.*  Other firms may take a more replacement approach and this can affect the way the job is run as well as how efficiently the insurance claim is handled.  Most insurance professionals realize that restoration versus replacement allows for property protection and long-term preservation and is the key to minimizing further damage within the property.

Cost of water mitigation

The first question we are usually faced with in an emergent water damage is, “What do we do now?”  The next most commons question is, “How much is it going to cost?” Property owners want to know how much it will cost to remove water within a property and to dry out the area.

The truth is that, while specific line items have standard pricing, cost of the full job varies from job to job, depending on severity and circumstances.  Here are a few things that factor into cost:

• Source of damage. For example, sewage is more expensive to clean up than the water from an ice maker due to additional precautions and disinfecting processes to prevent the spread of dangerous contaminants.
• Severity of damage. Size of job can be deceiving.  Occasionally, jobs with a small area of visible damage can actually be quite complicated to mitigate based on what is under the surface. One instance is when a water damage is left unattended and mold grows in the walls and under the flooring with no external sign of its presence
• Time of day emergency services are needed. After hours, weekends, and holidays often have different pricing, as the cost of production staff is more expensive during these times. However, insurance companies consider this when approving your claim.  We work directly with the insurance company to ensure they are in agreement with the necessity of the afterhours work and pricing.
• The specifics of your insurance policy. All policies range in deductible and coverage requirements. It is critical to know what you coverage is before beginning a job.  By calling us immediately upon discovering a water damage, we can help you navigate the beginning portion of the process and ensure that we are working within the parameters of your specific policy.

While the insurance and billing process of a water loss can be daunting, we have a team of trained professionals on staff 24/7 to make sure the claims and payment process is as seamless as possible. 

We are here for you.

Fortunately, water mitigation services are not something property owners require very often, but it is certainly a necessary service when dealing with chaotic water situations.  So, we highly recommend you research and find a restoration company that you will feel confident in calling if damage does occur. 

SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston & Dorchester County has been serving the Lowcountry for 16 years and have an incredible team ready to help.  Feel free to call us to discuss any questions you may have in advance of a disaster so you are as prepared as possible.

Always just a phone call away to make your water damage, "Like it never even happened."

*If you’d like to know a little bit more about why we restore rather than replace when possible, here is another post on the subject. 

Response Time is Critical!

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

Faster to any disaster!

SERVPRO strives to have the best response time possible when called for help on water damage. Our goal is two-fold:  To reduce interruption to your family or business and to make the insurance claim resolution seamless and timely.  On a practical level, we simply want to stop the rapid time in which damage can occur.

Here is a timeline on how the damage from water can progress over just a few weeks:

IN MINUTES…

• Water spreads very quickly from source to adjoining rooms.   
• Furniture can stain carpets.  
• Paper items are ruined.
• Color in carpets can run.
• Odors, especially pet or smoke, are released from the carpet and pad. 
• Electronics (computer towers, power bars, etc.) can be damaged.

IN HOURS…

• Wood and cabinets begin to swell, split or delaminate.
• Drywall begins to disintegrate.
• Bacteria begins to present and sewage contaminants become airborne.
• Many metal surfaces will begin to tarnish.
• Odor becomes stronger and more nauseating.
• Wooden & Vinyl floors can bubble, buckle or cup.

WITHIN A WEEK…

• Mold will begin to appear and affected areas will no longer be restorable.
• Metal surfaces will begin to rust.
• Wood on cabinets or doors and door casings begin to swell.
• Water will have seeped into the internal areas of furniture increasing the cost of drying, or make drying impossible.

 IN WEEKS…

• Residence may need to be evacuated due to health hazards.
• Drywall surface beyond the original affected area can be affected by seeping moisture, mold and mildew.
• Wood on cabinets, doors and casings can split and finishes be destroyed.
• Original affected area, as well as additional areas covered in mold and mildew, will become unsalvageable and will need to be replaced. 

SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston has professionally trained teams, ready for your call. Contact us 24/7 at (843) 552-1226.  

How well do you know your water?

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

Our professionally trained and certified technicians can identify the type of water and how to safely mitigate any damage.

We deal with water damages every day.  Part of effectively cleaning up a loss is identifying what type of water caused the damage.  There are three different classifications for water: clean, gray and black.

Clean Water

Much like its name states, “clean” water is free of harmful contaminants and is the result of broken water lines, malfunctioning appliances, toilet holding tanks, snow melt, and rainwater.

This is the easiest type of water damage to clean up after, but after sitting for 48 hours and following contact with the surfaces of a building, clean water then moves up to a category two, which is gray water.

Gray Water

With “gray” water, water damage cleanup and restoration will become a bit more serious and involved as it generally contains some kind chemical or biological contamination. 

Gray water can often come from dishwashers, aquariums, showers, etc. Again, the 48-hour exposure time applies here as well because if it is not quickly treated, gray water will turn into black water.

Black Water

Black water is the third classification of damaging water and the most serious of the three classifications. Considered highly contaminated by harmful chemicals and biological matter, it would include floodwaters containing soil and all sewage waters.

Sewage is laden with contaminating microbes, including bacteria, protozoans, molds, fungi and more, which can be harmful to humans. Some of the diseases that can be transmitted by black water are:

• Cholera
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis
• Gastroenteritis-type illnesses

When it comes to floods, assume that all water is black water since it will pick up contaminants as it travels along its path.

All three of these water classifications are recognized by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Remediation Certification (IICRC), which is an organization that certifies and sets the standard for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our technicians are certified in IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration and are available to help determine the steps to take to get your home back to normal.

It doesn’t matter what type of water has caused damage to your home or business, SERVPRO® of Greater Northern Charleston is here to help get the situation under control and make it "Like it never even happened." Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need emergency cleanup and restoration services!  We are here for you 24/7 ~ 843.552.1226

Preventing Water Damage.

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

If you have a water damage in your home, we are here to help. 24/7.

Did you know water damage can be one of the most common and costliest disasters your home may experience? Bursting pipes, malfunctioning appliances or storm damage are just some of the ways water can damage your home.

While water damage can be a common issue to deal with as a homeowner, there are things you can do to protect your home from these difficult scenarios.

Be sure to regularly:

• Inspect all appliances, correcting any issues with hoses and faucets
• Check all seals and caulking around your showers and tubs.
• Know where the main shut-off valve is in your home
• Only run the washing machine or dishwasher while you are home.

How to Start the Recovery Process

In the event you do encounter a water damage situation in your home, you can stand a good chance at salvaging items if they can be dried out within 48 hours.

You will want to quickly dry your home out and dehumidify it following a water damage disaster. Be sure to remove wet objects and disinfect remaining materials. Working with SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston simplifies the entire process from drying to insurance claim for you as we work to put your home back together. 

It may seem like recovering from water damage is an overwhelming and slightly impossible task, but it doesn’t have to be. You can call on the highly trained experts at SERVPRO® of Greater Northern Charleston, who are here to make it "Like it never even happened."  We are here 24/7 ~ 843.552.1226.

$1,000 Value! Check it out!

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

Just a few quick minutes registers you for deductible relief if you end up with a fire or water damage insurance claim on your home.

SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston & Dorchester County is excited to introduce a new program to the Charleston area!

Our Residential Emergency Ready Program offers homeowners up to $1,000 of their deductible, paid by us, if you are registered with us, have current insurance coverage, and choose to use our services to recover from a water, fire, or mold damage in your home. By registering in advance of any damage, you know exactly what to do during a time that can be very unsettling. 

It is super simple - Fill out this quick and easy Google form.  And...that's it. No obligation, no contract, no cost, and you can cancel at any time.

We will send you periodic updates or information relevant to preventative care and residential preparedness. We promise not to flood your inbox! We just want to be able to stay in touch. Especially if there is a city-wide flood or storm event.

We love serving the Lowcountry and are always here to help. Please feel free to call or email our office with any questions.  

The More You Know.

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

We are are always ready to help. Here's what we will need to know.

Living in Charleston, we are no strangers to flooding, and heavy wind and rain forcing water into places it does not belong!  A water damage in your home can be an incredibly daunting experience and our teams are trained to efficiently navigate you through the entire experience.  Knowing a little about what we will need before you call, can help expedite the process and allow us to answer your questions more effectively.

Here are a few of the questions you can expect to be asked during that nerve-wracking initial call:

• Your name, address, email, and the best contact information to reach you.
• Insurance claim information, if you have already called them.
• The cause of water damage and when it occurred.
• Is power and water still on at property?
• How many rooms, and what type of flooring was affected?
• Are ceilings affected in any of the rooms?
• Is your home on a slab or a crawlspace and how many stories?
• Is property accessible and who will be meeting our crew?

We are available to help make the water clean-up and reconstruction process as painless as possible for you and your family.

Call, any time. 24/7 ~ 843.552.1226

Just in Case...

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Too much of this commodity going in the toilet? We can help!

Schools are cancelled and kids are home all day,  looking for things to do!  While there are many options to choose between TV, online lessons, board games, family activities, etc, we are betting a bit of boredom might set in from time to time!  If that boredom, a random accident, or use of something other than TP causes a toilet clog or over flow, we thought we'd share a couple tips!  

First...the clog.  We thought about compiling our own list, but then we found this one from Sunrise Specialty.  We worry a bit about number 6 because of a few dishwasher meets dish detergent mishaps!  But, upon a bit of research, it seems legit.  Check them out! If you are unfortunate and have to try one of these DIY solutions, please take a pic and share it with us!

In the event the toilet does overflow, we are available to you, even if it is just to answer questions.  If you aren't comfortable with someone coming into your home, we want to make sure you are doing all you can to avoid as much damage as possible. 

The safer way to protect additional damage down the road is to have us mitigate, dry, and disinfect properly.  This is the best way to prevent potential mold and ensure your insurance claim isn't questioned. 

Our teams are taking extra precaution with protective gear, hospital-grade disinfectants, and adjusted monitoring schedules to minimize our time in your home.  We are also sanitizing high traffic surfaces in rooms we have to work in or walk through, at no additional charge to you. 

We understand how unsettling this time is for everyone, and we want to do all we can to help.  Please do not hesitate to call.

Stay well, and enjoy as much of this time with your littles as you can! 

Water From Above!

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

Got water? We are here to help!

The paint bubbling on the ceiling of this Summerville home is the result of a plumbing leak in a second floor bathroom.  This was not a happy day for this homeowner!  Our technicians showed up, assessed the situation, and were able to put the family at ease.  Within just a few days, the affected areas were dried out, disinfected, and the home was ready for new flooring, paint, and bathroom cabinets! We were able to take care of that for them too!  "Like it never even happened," is always the goal.

We at SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston and Dorchester County are ready, professionally trained, and eager to help.  From fires to disinfecting cleanings, we can take care of all of your restoration needs. 

Here for you 24/7.

Wood and Water Do Not Mix!

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Find yourself with a water loss that has damaged your floors? We can help! 24/7

Response time is critical when it comes to a water loss in your home.  The longer water sits, the more damage it causes.  Sadly, there was nothing that could be done for these wood floors!  

This Charleston area home had fairly extensive damage throughout, and we were so happy we could help.  Our technicians showed up on site prepared and trained to extract excess water, remove flooring, and dry and disinfect the salvageable materials.  In just a few days, this homeowner was ready to reinstall flooring and get their lives back to normal. 

SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston has a fully trained team ready at all times to take care of your home in the event of a water loss.  We can be reached 24/7 at 843-552-1226.  

Happy 2019 Preparedness Month!

8/31/2019 (Permalink)

Happy National Preparedness Month! Are you ready, Charleston? We can help.

It’s finally here!  September, National Preparedness Month, is a disaster recovery company’s December!   Instead of talking about holiday menus and checking off items on a gift list, we spend our time on best preparedness practices and emergency kit items.   Ok, so September doesn’t have the glitter of December.  However, we find great joy in every emergency planning tip that helps you provide another layer of safety during an emergency in your home or a city wide natural disaster.

This month, we are going to post some of our favorite weather sites, preparedness tips for your home, insight on how to protect your business, and what you should have on hand in those emergency kits.  So… stay tuned!

We may as well start with Hurricane Dorian! Keep an eye on him with Count on 2 Hurricane Central.  Stay safe, Charleston.  We don’t want a major storm affecting our families or businesses any more than you do, but know we are here if one heads our way.

24/7 – Always live, no answering service.  Always ready to help.  843.552.1226 (Go ahead… put it in your phone so you can be ready too!)

All the Right Ingredients!

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

Think GREEN for all your fire and water restoration needs!

Green leafy veggies are part of what is needed to take care of the health and well being of you and your family.  Choosing SERVPRO green can be just as effective at taking care of your home and business!  When disaster strikes, and you trust SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston and Dorchester County to provide restoration services, you are guaranteed to receive exactly what you need.

Certified and trained technicians, consistent IICRC standard processes, and use of safe and effective products is the recipe we use to “make it like it never even happened.”  

We certainly do not wish disaster on any of our Charleston neighbors, but sadly, messes do happen.  If you find yourself in need of help after a water or fire related loss, please do not hesitate to call. We are here for you 24/7, 365 days a year.  

What We Need to Know.

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Knowing what questions we may ask helps you be more prepared for a water damage.

A water damage in your home can be a daunting experience.  Knowing a little about what we will need before you call, can help expedite the process and allow us to answer your questions more effectively during the first call.  Here are a few of the questions you can expect to be asked during that nerve-wracking initial call: 

• Your name, address, and the best contact information to reach you.
• Insurance information, if you have already called them. 
• The cause of water damage and when it occurred.
• Is power and water still on at property?
• How many rooms, and what type of flooring was affected?
• Are ceilings affected in any of the rooms?
• Is your home on a slab or a crawlspace and how many stories?
• Is property accessible and who will be meeting our crew?

We are available to help make the water clean up process as painless as possible for you and your family.  Call, any time. 24/7 ~ 843.552.1226

Protect Your Home From Water Damage

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know water damage can be one of the most common and costliest disasters your home may experience? Bursting pipes, malfunctioning appliances or storm damage are just some of the ways water can damage your home.

While water damage can be a common issue to deal with as a homeowner, there are things you can do to protect your home from these difficult scenarios.

How to Protect Your Home

Not only will you find that water damage is a big headache to deal with, but it can also have a long-term impact on your home—namely, mold. Mold can start to grow in as little as 24–48 hours of water exposure.

As you begin to think about ways to safeguard your home, break it down by areas of impact to make the task easier. 

You can prevent water damage from happening in the basement by checking for water seepage. Look for vulnerable areas of the basement that may need resealing, make sure water drains away from your home and install a backwater valve.

In the kitchen and bathrooms, water damage can occur due to plumbing and appliance failures.

Be sure to regularly:

• Inspect all appliances, correcting any issues with hoses and faucets
• Check all seals and caulking around your showers and tubs.
• Know where the main shut-off valve is in your home
• Only run the washing machine or dishwasher while you are home.

Protecting your possessions from water damage can’t always happen, but there are steps to take that may decrease the amount of loss. Using waterproof bins to store items is always advised and, if using your basement for storage, keep items stored on shelving off of the floor.

How to Start the Recovery Process

In the event you do encounter a water damage situation in your home, you can stand a good chance at salvaging items if they can be dried out within 48 hours.

Make sure that you immediately contact your insurance company and evaluate the extent of the water damage in your home.

You will want to quickly dry your home out and dehumidify it following a water damage disaster. Be sure to remove wet objects and disinfect remaining materials. Working with SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston simplifies the entire process from drying to insurance claim for you as you work to put your home back together. 

It may seem like recovering from water damage is an overwhelming and slightly impossible task, but it doesn’t have to be. You can call on the highly trained experts at SERVPRO® of Greater Northern Charleston, who are here to make it "Like it never even happened!"  We are here 24/7 ~ 843.552.1226.

Not All Water Is Created Equal.

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Our professionally trained and certified technicians can help you identify the type of water and how to safely mitigate any damage.

It would be much simpler if we could think of all water causing damage as the same, but in reality, there are three different classifications for this water: clean, gray and black. Understanding the differences in these types of water will help you understand how to better handle the situation.

What Is Clean Water?

Much like its name states, “clean” water is not the type to pose an immediate threat to your health as this water is free of contaminants and resulting from:

• Broken water lines
• Malfunctioning appliances
• Toilet holding tanks
• Snow melt and rainwater

This is the easiest type of water damage to clean up after, as there will not be as many microbes living in the water, but after sitting for 48 hours and following contact with the surfaces of a building, clean water then moves up to a category two, which is gray water.

What Is Gray Water?

With “gray” water, water damage cleanup and restoration will become a bit more serious and involved. It may pose a health risk because it will contain chemical or biological contamination. 

Gray water can often come from dishwashers, aquariums, showers, etc. Again, the 48-hour exposure time applies here as well because if it is not quickly treated, gray water will turn into black water.

What Is Black Water?

Black water is the third classification of damaging water and the most serious of the three classifications. Considered highly contaminated by harmful chemicals and biological matter, it would include floodwaters containing soil and all sewage waters.

Sewage is laden with contaminating microbes, including bacteria, protozoans, molds, fungi and more, which can be harmful to humans. Some of the diseases that can be transmitted by black water are:

• Cholera
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis
• Gastroenteritis-type illnesses

Remember, when it comes to floods, assume that all water is black water since it will pick up contaminants as it travels along its path.

All three of these floodwater classifications are recognized by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Remediation Certification (IICRC), which is an organization that certifies and sets the standard for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our technicians all study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration and are available to help determine the steps to take to get your home back to normal.

It doesn’t matter what type of water has caused damage to your home or business, SERVPRO® of Greater Northern Charleston is here to help get the situation under control and make it "Like it never even happened." Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need emergency cleanup and restoration services!  We are here for you 24/7 ~ 843.552.1226

Common Causes of Water Damage to Your Home

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

A broken pipe caused this Summerville, SC home's water damage.

While severe weather is one of the first things one thinks of where water damage is concerned, water damage can happen in other ways.

Storms and flooding can cause catastrophic water damage, but they are often not the main culprits. Everyday household items in your home can be responsible for many situations that result in water damage.

There are different types of water damage, storm damage, and gradual damage.  Gradual damage is something that has been happening over time, i.e. plumbing issues behind the walls causing damage to the walls, ceilings or floors, or water damage caused by cracks in the foundation. Unfortunately, this type of water damage is usually not covered by homeowners insurance, while storm-related and other emergency water damage usually is.

Common Water Damage Culprits

According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), the leading household systems that cause water damage are:

• Frozen pipes can burst due to water pressure buildup caused by freezing water or when the supply system materials fail and results in pipes leaking or bursting. 

• Plumbing drain system failures occur when a sewer drain backs up and overflows into a home or from material breakdown issues. 

• Toilets are the second leading source of residential water damage loss after plumbing supply system failures and can range from faulty fill valves or clogged drain lines. 

• When an older water heater has reached its life expectancy, the tank begins to deteriorate and rust and corrode, resulting in leaking or bursting issues. 

• Typically caused by water supply hose failures, machines overflowing and drain line failures, washing machines are one of the top 10 sources of residential water damage losses. 

If your home has experienced water damage of any type, the team at SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston is available ²⁴⁄₇ to help with cleanup and restoration and make it look “Like it never even happened.”

Feel free to call our emergency line 24/7 ~ 843.552.1226 or through our Contact Us page.  We are always here to help!

Our Newest Addition!

3/9/2018 (Permalink)

Welcome, Velo, to SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston!

Everyone likes new stuff right?  We certainly do! SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston takes great pride in making sure we have the best possible products and equipment on hand.  This allows us to take care of your restoration needs in the most efficient manner and reduce the impact on your day to day life.

This is our newest addition to the Production inventory:  The DRI-EAZ Velo Low Profile Centrifugal Air Mover.  The Velo is at least 10 pounds lighter and uses just shy of 50% less amps to run. These facts, coupled with reduced noise and size, make this fan ideal to most comfortably and quickly dry out water damage in your home or business.

Remember, we are here 24/7 for all of your fire, water, and mold restoration needs.  (843) 552-1226

Is your college student ready for a flood??

8/2/2017 (Permalink)

Charleston students! Are you ready in the event of a flood or fire in your dorm or apartment?

With the school year finally upon us, there are many college students on the move!  Whether they are moving away from home or just moving from one dorm or apartment to another, they all have one need in common.  Renter’s Insurance!  On more than one occasion, SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston has watched frustrated parents and students, throw away and have to come out of pocket to replace items damaged by water, fire, or mold.

For an extremely minimal premium, most content policies cover replacement cost of contents damaged the event of a water or fire loss, living expenses if you are displaced from the unit, and possibly items borrowed from someone else that happened to be damaged in the same loss.  Some have liability coverage for injury after an accident with your pet or other incident in the home.  There is also often coverage for a burglary or financial fraud.

Needless to say the value far outweighs the cost when you consider that recovering from a single event could cost thousands of dollars.  Reach out to your local insurance agent for a quote before you unpack that first box!  If you don’t know a local agent, feel free to give us a call for recommendations.

As always, we are here to help.  24/7/365 ~ (843) 552-1226 or on our website.

All of us at SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston hope you have a safe and amazing school year!    

With Water Damage, Response Time is Critical!

5/13/2014 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster! Any where in the Charleston Area.

SERVPRO strives to have the best response time possible when we are called for a fire or water damage.   Our 1-4-8 policy sets us apart when it comes to taking care of your home or business in the most expeditious manner.   Our goal is two-fold:  To reduce interruption to your family or business and to make the insurance claim resolution seamless and timely.  Dealing with all of the facets of a water damage and insurance claim can be overwhelming.  Adding additional frustration and cost to the mix due to a delay in response time is simply unnecessary.

Here is a timeline on how the damage from water can progress over just a few weeks:

WITHIN MINUTES…

WITHIN HOURS…

WITHIN A WEEK…

 WITHIN WEEKS…

SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston is ready for your call. Contact us 24/7 at (843) 552-1226.  For non-emergent needs we can also be reached thru the on line Contact Us Form.

Turn Around, Don't Drown!

3/18/2014 (Permalink)

Turn Around, Don't Drown! Flood Safety Awareness Week 2014

Flooding remains one of the top weather killers in the U.S., with the average number of annual fatalities totaling near 90. More than half of these fatalities are vehicle-related. The National Weather Service has been working to bring those numbers down and, for the past decade, has been doing so using its “Turn Around Don’t Drown” campaign, which is dedicated to teaching the public about flood safety.

Hector Guerrero, warning coordination meteorologist at the NWS San Angelo, Texas, forecast office, began formulating a plan for a program to raise awareness of the dangers of driving or walking into flooded areas in the early 2000s. While Guerrero worked at the NWS forecast office in Brownsville, Texas, he became concerned when hurricane evacuees from the Texas coast would relocate to the heart of Texas’ Flash Flood Alley. He was also aware of the dangers associated with flash floods having grown up in Austin, also part of Flash Flood Alley. “I wanted a catchy phrase along the lines of the fire-safety mantra "Stop, Drop and Roll,” said Guerrero. “After brainstorming with a group of firefighters from Harlingen, Texas, I chose ‘Turn Around Don’t Drown.’” 

Guerrero worked with a team from NWS Southern Region Headquarters and together they partnered with the Texas Division of Emergency Management, the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, and the City of Fort Worth Fire Department. NWS launched the “Turn Around Don’t Drown” program in Texas in 2003. Once the phrase was officially trademarked by NOAA, the program made its national debut in 2004. 

Since then, hundreds of permanent “Turn Around Don’t Drown” signs have been established along roadways prone to flooding across the U.S. and the slogan has become an often repeated catchphrase in the media, classrooms and even the home. In addition to the NWS education materials, NWS partners also distribute resources bearing the phrase. 

For information on how SERVPRO of Greater Northern Charleston can help if you are facing flood damage to your home or business, please take a look at the Water Damage Restoration page on our website.

You can also Contact Us, 24/7, for help.  (843) 747-8750

Atricle courtesy of NWS & NOAA