Untreated Water Damage Can Lead to a Mold Problem

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

We are ready to take on the mold in your home so you don't have too!

Black mold can spread through your home as the result of a few things. The most common is improperly treatemed water damage. The two types of water damage that may result in mold spores  inside your home are a slow, unnoticed leak the other a large and sudden loss.

First the slow leak is common when there is a leaky pipe that isn't easily visable under a sink, inside the walls, around a windowsill, or underneath the flooring. These result in the affected area being dark and damp which allows for the mold growth.

The second most common is a large sudden loss.  These generally occur as the result of a burst pipe, glogged drain, roof leak or a flood that result in standing water.  Many will remove the water themselves with a shopvac and attempt to air it out with fans and opening windows.  In a situation with this amount of water this may not fix the problem properly and can lead more porblems.  The main problem being the growth of mold from not properly drying out the affected area. Having a reputable water mitigation and restoration company that can properly identify the and remediate the situation can help any issues in the future.

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem’s technicians are highly trained to identify and target water damage at the source. One way to detect the slow, unnoticed leak would be to monitor your water usage bill. If there is a noticeable increase in water usage without any explanation could be the result of a leak. Calling a plumber to identify any potential problems would be the best thing to do. After a large, sudden loss, it is best to give a water damage restoration business a call so that your problem can be handled by professionals. As the best water damage restoration business out there, SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Floods may not be that common, but they do happen in Oregon

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

1964 Christmas flood in Oregon

The Christmas Flood that happened in 1964 may not be known by many.  Anyone that experienced it may have forgotten and of course some of us had not been born or were too young to recall. This particular flood caused hundreds of millions of dollars in property damage and continued for over three weeks. This was one of the most devastating floods to hit the Willamette Valley in recorded history.  As a result of the damage over three thousand people were displaced from their residences and sadly there were seventeen casualties.  This flood has been referred to as a 100-year flood which means a similar occurance may happen again.

Another instance of flooding more recently was the Willamette Valley Flood of 1996.  The rising waters affected the areas of Oregon City, Tillamook, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The destruction caused an estimated half a billion dollars in property damage leaving some areas under water for a couple weeks.  Again there were unfortunately eight casualties resulting as well in Oregon.

If there is another flooding natural disaster, SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is always faster to any size disaster.  We also use the best equipment available so our highly trained technicians will restore your property to get things back to normal as soon as possible.  

Damage from a Faulty Air Conditioner

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

Damage from faulty AC unit

This past week we had a referral come in from a dear friend. His friend who is a single mother noticed that the air conditioning unit in the attic quit working. In a matter of days, she started noticing water stains on her roof and began to think, where is this water coming from? She then called her trusty friend, to ask for a painter and that is when he advised that painting was not the only thing she should be worried about. He advised that there needed to be a company to check how much water was in the wall and if there was any mold growing. Then she could worry about the paint. He then remembered us here at SERVPRO and said hey, give them a call and they will advise of the damage! The best compliment is a referral! We thank our continue clients for their kind words.

Contaminated Water Response

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

Microbe Growth Thrives Between 68 and 86 Degrees!

We follow the IICRC S500 Principles of Water Damage Restoration.  The Standard for water damage restoration is designed to:

-Provide for the safety and health of workers and occupants

-Document and inspect further damage

-Mitigate further damage

-Clean and dry affected areas

-Complete the restoration and repairs.

As a water response company, it is extremely important to know the type of water we are dealing with. Immediate response is taken to prevent the growth of microbes. Microbes found in water damages are fungi, bacteria and viruses. Excessive water and humidity can result in microbores multiplying. Microbes become airborne and spread to clean areas, causing cross contamination. To prevent mold growth, keep indoor relative humidity to below 60%. Receive fast, quality service by calling the professionals at SERVPRO, who will help prevent further issues!

Untreated Water Damage Can Lead to Mold Problems

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

If you see this in your home or business, call a plumber or us, SERVPRO of southeast Portland for an inspection.

Black mold can spread through your home as the result of a few things. The most common is improperly threatened water damage. The two types of water damage that may result in mold spores  inside your home are a slow, unnoticed leak the other a large and sudden loss.

First the slow leak is common when there is a leaky pipe that isn't easily visible under a sink, inside the walls, around a windowsill, or underneath the flooring. These result in the affected area being dark and damp which allows for the mold growth.

The second most common is a large sudden loss.  These generally occur as the result of a burst pipe, clogged drain, roof leak or a flood that result in standing water.  Many will remove the water themselves with a shopvac and attempt to air it out with fans and opening windows.  In a situation with this amount of water this may not fix the problem properly and can lead more problems.  The main problem being the growth of mold from not properly drying out the affected area. Having a reputable water mitigation and restoration company that can properly identify the and remediate the situation can help any issues in the future.

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland technicians are highly trained to identify and target water damage at the source. One way to detect the slow, unnoticed leak would be to monitor your water usage bill. If there is a noticeable increase in water usage without any explanation could be the result of a leak. Calling a plumber to identify any potential problems would be the best thing to do. After a large, sudden loss, it is best to give a water damage restoration business a call so that your problem can be handled by professionals. As the best water damage restoration business out there, SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Floods may not be common, but they do happen in Oregon

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

No matter what disaster comes our way, we are always here to help!

The Christmas Flood that happened in 1964 may not be known by many.  Anyone that experienced it may have forgotten and of course some of us had not been born or were too young to recall. This particular flood caused hundreds of millions of dollars in property damage and continued for over three weeks. This was one of the most devastating floods to hit the Willamette Valley in recorded history.  As a result of the damage over three thousand people were displaced from their residences and sadly there were seventeen casualties.  This flood has been referred to as a 100-year flood which means a similar occurance may happen again.

Another instance of flooding more recently was the Willamette Valley Flood of 1996.  The rising waters affected the areas of Oregon City, Tillamook, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The destruction caused an estimated half a billion dollars in property damage leaving some areas under water for a couple weeks.  Again there were unfortunately eight casualties resulting as well in Oregon.

If there is another flooding natural disaster, SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is always faster to any size disaster.  We also use the best equipment available so our highly trained technicians will restore your property to get things back to normal as soon as possible.  

Dripping Faucet can lead to more damage than you think.

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Don't wait for this to happen! Call SERVPRO of Southeast Portland anytime, any day.

Ring Ring… Ring Ring… Ring Ri… Snooze.

If you are in the majority of America, 57% to be exact, you push the snooze button on your alarm at least once every morning. If that five to fifteen minutes is going to benefit or hurt your morning, depends on your situation.

Drip Drop… Drip Drop… Drip Drop…

Unfortunately, there isn't a button to stop the flow of water or prevent further water damage. After the water damage has happened every minute that you snooze yourself away from taking action can be more and more harm to your property. Within minutes of the water leak, piping malfunction, or one of the other numerous ways water damage can occur, the water quickly spreads throughout your property. Absorbing into walls, floors, and other easily susceptible areas of your home. Your personal belongings such as photos, important documents, family heirlooms, and electronic devices can be completely destroyed within that first fifteen minutes.

Spring Spring… Into Into… Action Action…

Locating your water shutoff valves can be a hassle when you only have a few minutes left on the clock to prevent further damage. Don’t catch yourself snoozing – it is important to know the location of all your major water shut off valves so that you can quickly spring into action and minimize the damage to your home and belongings. While 15 minutes of extra sleep goes by in a flash in the morning; that 15 minutes is all the leaky pipe needs to destroy memories while taking cash out of your pocket. Call us at SERVPRO of Southeast Portland and we will drop what we are doing to spring into action for you.

After Effects of Water Damage

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Don't hesitate to call us with any questions!

The damage caused by water can be devastating for property owners. Heavy rain or quickly melting snow increases the potential of this type of damage. Unwanted damage can result in costly damages to wood furniture, upholstery, electronics, household appliances, and plumbing equipment. Water damage also increases the risk of mold growth.  The cost of the remediation process can be very expensive as well. Hiring a water damage restoration company can make the cleanup process easier to handle, as these companies employ experienced workers who know the best ways to repair or replace damaged items and help with water damage cleanup.

Causes of Water Damage

There are several possible causes of water damage. Leaky dishwashers, clogged toilets, broken pipes, broken dishwasher hoses, overflowing washing machines, leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, and foundation cracks are just some of the possible causes of water damage in homes and businesses. Floods, heavy snow, and heavy rain are other possible causes of this type of damage and can lead to having water in basements. Too much water can lead to minor problems such as water in basement areas, or it can lead to the destruction of homes and businesses. Once a home or business sustains water damage, it is important to start the water damage cleanup immediately. Starting water damage cleanup as soon as possible increases the likelihood of saving water-soaked furniture, carpets, rugs, clothing, and other items.

Categories of Water Damage

Assessing the severity of the damage is important for determining what is needed to start water damage repair and water removal. There are several different categories assigned to water damage. Category 1 refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. Possible causes of this type of damage include broken appliances or sink overflows. Category 2 water is also called gray water.  Broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage may cause category 2 water damage. Category 3 water is known as black water. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options. Class 1 is the least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Class 2 has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. Class 3 has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture. Class 4 requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete.

Restoration Process

The water restoration process is an important one. Using the right procedures and materials can help people save cherished belongings and even prevent their homes from being condemned. Water restoration companies specialize in mitigating the effects of water, but the success for water damage restoration depends on the severity of the damage and the amount of water that caused the damage. Water restoration companies may hire outside experts such as SERVPRO of Southeast Portland to assess a property and determine a water restoration and water removal plan. SERVPRO of Southeast Portland uses high-tech equipment and well-documented procedures to control water damage. Water in basement areas may only require a short cleanup process, but water in other areas of a property will require extensive remediation.

SERVPRO and Plumbers United!

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

When this happens, call us right away!

Something that customers, insurance adjusters and property owners should know and be aware of. When a water loss happens pertaining to a busted pipe, most people call their plumbers first. A plumber will show up on scene and determine the cause of loss. If there is standing water or sewage, they seek our services here at SERVPRO. This is a working relationship with the plumber and SERVPRO to mitigate the water or sewage issue and then immediately have the plumber back in to fix the origination of the loss. If this course of action is not taken, we will be requested again to provide mitigate services and causing additional cost that do not need to be if set up correctly. We here at SERVPRO aim to help in assisting with this process and alleviating additional steps in the recovery efforts of a water loss. Call the Pros (503) 427-9535

Storm and Large Loss Water Response is "A" Team Effort.

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Storms are brewing!

Here at SERVPRO we have “Storm Teams” set and ready to Mobilize when called upon. Storms, Large Losses and catastrophic losses such as fire, water, tornado, hurricanes, flooding, mid slides and earthquakes; require immediate attention. Our appropriate response goals are to reduce business interruption, reduce claim cost and minimize call backs. We do this by prioritizing, a written plan with daily goals, a tremendous amount of activity and working fast! We often work with other restoration companies, as a team, to have availability to double our response and efficiency in all types of storm exposures. Our Storm Teams have been trained and work throughout the year to be prepared. As being one of the leaders in large loss nationwide, we take great pride in being able to work side by side with our fellow franchise owners. When a major catastrophe strikes, call your trust SERVPRO for immediate response!

Knowing What Your Insurance Covers Pertaining to Water Damage

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage due to washer machine over flowing.

It is very important to read your policy to find exactly what your insurance company provides when it comes to water damage on your property. Meeting with your agent can clear up the fine print, pertaining to water damage coverage what coverages your policy affords.

We are finding that water damage that is sudden and accidental is covered. Items that could be prevented by maintenance or are prolonged due to the initial cause of loss like mold are not covered.

We have found that you can purchase additional coverages for mold, for water and backup coverage for outside pipes, that there are maintenance policies available for you to purchase for your home electronics, hot water tank and major home appliances etc. as these are not considered sudden and accidental.

Flood and landslides/ land movement are typically not covered in polices either. To make sure you have adequate coverage for possible water damage, we suggest checking your insurance coverages.  

Common 4 Causes of Property Damage Due to Water

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growing due to water exposure.

4 Top Causes of Property Water Damage:

Plumbing Issues: old pipes can leak and break.  We recommend once a year having your pipes examined.

Home Appliances: malfunctioning of home appliances and leaky washing machines can cause build of water. Check behind and below appliances frequently to insure no standing water.

HVAC Systems: Air conditioners are another source of water damage in homes. Moisture can build up in walls creating standing water lines and mold issues.

Weather and Natural Disasters; storms can create water damage and expose parts of your home to potential additional hazards.

We suggest having a calendar or schedule to examine possible water damage exposure to prevent future property damage. In the event you discover water lines, broken pipes or mold from existing water  or if you need water extraction or mold remediation, call the experts here at SERVPRO.

Apartment Owners and Tenant Responsibilities

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water coming from roof within an apartment.

Leaks and water damage can be major cost for apartment owners. Water leaks and water damage have been highlighted as a common and major maintenance issue for apartment buyers and owners, which can cost thousands of dollars to repair. It is crucial that all maintenance is up to date and water issues are completed in timely matter.  Landlords are lawfully required to fix damage to the apartments affected; this includes rooms, doors, walls, balconies and utilities. Landlords are not required to pay for repairs of furniture or personal belongings, the only exception is if the tenant can prove the damage was due to the landlord’s negligence.  Tenants can purchase a renter’s policy from most insurance companies to cover their personal belongings in their residence. For both landlords and tenants, it is important to be very retroactive once water damage is known.  Being that mold comes from water, prevention is key as most stand insurance policies have exclusions for mold. Call us here at SERVPRO to have water remediation services started immediately.

Flood Water and Deciphering the Risk

6/27/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding waters over take a house.

Flood waters only one foot deep can sweep you off your fleet. It is also unsafe to play in flood water as it is likely contaminated.

During heavy rains: Listen to the radio or news for warnings and directions issued by emergency management personnel. Follow directions carefully. If you are asked to evacuate please do so.  Meanings of potential floods:

  Flood Forecast: Rainfall is heavy enough to cause rivers to overflow their banks.

 Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or are will soon occur.

Flash Flood Watch: Heavy rains are occurring or are expected to cause sudden flash flooding in specified areas.

Flash Flood Warning: Flash flooding is imminent or occurring at designated areas.

Water can cause huge damage in a matter of minutes. Be sure to have SERVPRO’s number on hand to assist with water mitigation services. 503-427-9535.

Busted Pipes Can Cause Unintended Damages

6/27/2020 (Permalink)

Pipe Busting

A single burst pipe can release 4-8 gallons of water per minute. This can be detrimental to your home or business if left unattended. One of the biggest concerns of fixing burst pipes is the plumber cost that comes along with it. Fixing a burst pipe can seem daunting, however, if left unattended, the burst pipe can create lingering problems.

Water damage can go deep into the walls and damage into the interior of the home. Without attending to the damage and treating the issue further damage can come about, such as mold.

Most mold damage is not covered by insurance companies and can create long lasting health issues. Creating costly expenses.

At the onset of any water issue, call your local SERVPRO to come out and detect the water damage. SERVPRO has the measuring tools to determine the depths of water damage. 503-427-9535

Summer Water Damage Prevention

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Avoiding water issues!

There is potential for water damage in your home throughout the year, but certain times are more likely than others to present specific challenges. Summer, for example, has its own unique circumstances that may trigger water damage, most of which are related to outdoor weather. While you can’t do anything to control the weather, you may be able to take steps to prevent or reduce the ultimate outcome of weather-related water damage. Here are some typical sources of summer water damage and what can be done to best avoid it.

Air Conditioner Issues

Keeping you cool on a hot summer day, a central A/C unit extracts gallons of water vapor from the air. If everything works right, it’s collected in the condensate drip pan, then conveyed down the drain line. If the drip pan or drain line is clogged, the pan overflows every time the system cycles on, potentially inflicting substantial water damage before it’s noticed. While the unit’s running, use a flashlight to inspect the drip pan under the air handler. It’s normal for it to be wet. However, if you see standing water, contact an HVAC service technician to troubleshoot the drain system.

Protect your home from water damage while you're out of town this summer.

June 20th marks the official first day of summer.  The most common cause of home water damage in the months of summer is when families leave on vacation.  They leave their homes empty for days, weeks and sometimes even months.  If there is any kind of leak, even a small one, it'll be left unchecked and can cause a substantial amount of damage by the time someone ever notices.  This could be devastating. 

Follow these actionable tips to ensure the safety of your home. 

• Turn off the main water 
• Drain your pipes 
• Turn off water heater
• Have a friend check your home 

Severe Storms

Heat-triggered thunderstorms can dump several inches of rainfall in a short time on a hot, humid summer day. Here are some things to watch out for:

• Gutter overflows. Water spilling out of clogged gutters penetrates exterior walls as well as undermines the foundation and seeps into the basement. Inspect gutters and downspouts and keep them clear of debris. Make sure downspouts are long enough to discharge water at least three feet from the house.
• Roof leakage. Saturated attic insulation and water dripping down through ceilings into living spaces during a summer storm is an untimely way to find out that your roof leaks. Experts recommend a professional roof inspection every three years for asphalt and wood-shingle roofs. You can do some DIY checking yourself by climbing into the attic and looking for signs of leakage such as dark streaks on the underside of sub-roofing.

Basement Flooding? SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is Here to Help!

7/5/2019 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are many reasons why your Portland basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - (503) 427-9535

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Southeast Portland and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Water Damage Can Cause Black Mold... We Can Help.

7/5/2019 (Permalink)

There are several reasons that harmful and toxic black mold can spread through your home. One of the most common factors that leads to this mold is improperly treated water damage. There are two separate types of water damage that can cause mold spores to spread inside your home. The first and most common is a slow, unnoticed leak. The second would be a large and sudden loss.

Slow, Unnoticed Leak: This damage is common when there is a leaky pipe that hidden underneath a sink, inside of the walls, near a windowsill, or under the floor. The affected areas are now filled with moisture and become a breading ground for black mold to grow and spread.

Large, Sudden Loss: When a homeowner has a large leak, or a pipe burst that leaves standing water there are two routes normally taken. A DIYer will typically try to remove all the water themselves and then dry out the affected area with retail fans and opening a few windows. This is not recommended and can lead to more problems. If you are not properly trained to fight water damage it can be difficult if not next to impossible to locate all the moisture without the proper equipment. If any of the damaged area is left untreated it becomes a harbor for black mold. The second and recommended route is to call a water mitigation company that can properly identify all the affected areas and can get to work quickly.

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland’s technicians are highly trained to identify and target water damage at the source. The best preventative measure to identify a slow, unnoticed leak would be to monitor your water usage bill. If you see an unexpected and noticeable spike in the amount of water being used it could be the sign of a leak. Calling a plumber to identify any potential problems is best. After a large, sudden loss, it is best to give a water damage restoration business a call so that your problem can be handled by professionals. As the best water damage restoration business out there, SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

When the Snow Melts...

7/5/2019 (Permalink)

Most Portlandian’s will remember the snowstorm in December of 2008. We had nearly a foot of snow that wreaked havoc on our lives for days. Tri-Met shut down two-thirds of their bus lines while hundreds of flights were cancelled. The storm left thousands of people stranded and stuck in place while thousands of others attempted to traverse through the snow but failed. The storm even cost the city over $2 million on related services. Everyone has a story from the large, wild, and unexpected 2008 snowstorm.

The snowstorm in December of 2008 is not even in the top 10 for largest snowstorms to hit the Portland area in recorded history. In 1884 Portland experienced its snowiest December with over 31 inches of snow. Nearly three times the amount of snowfall hit the metropolitan area and surely closed everything down. If we were to suffer record breaking snow again, the damage associated with it is unfathomable.

With this much ice on the ground and a sharp decrease in temperature any small cracks inside of pipes can easily be infiltrated and expanded to the point that they break. Burst pipes aren’t the only fear when a storm such as this hits. What happens to all the water once it melts? Several feet of snow surrounding your home has to go somewhere once it melts. Without proper weathering and flood protection your home could be susceptible to a flood as the result of melting snow. During the event of a major snowstorm SERVPRO of Southeast Portland has a network of Storm Responders that are “Faster to any size disaster” that are dedicating to serving you in your moment of need.

Floods Happen in Oregon

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

The Christmas Flood of 1964 is something many people have forgotten about or were not alive to witness. The flood caused hundreds of millions of dollars in property damage and lasted for 3 weeks. Considered one of the worst floods to ever hit the Willamette Valley in recorded history the flood displaced 3,000 Oregonian’s from their homes and 17 people lost their lives as a result. Considered a 100-year flood we know that something like this can happen again.

More likely to be remembered is the Willamette Valley Flood of 1996 that flooded Oregon City, Tillamook, and the popular Tom McCall Waterfront Park. This flood is estimated to have caused over $500 million in property damage and left some areas submerged for several weeks. The floods were responsible for eight deaths in Oregon.

In the event of a flood SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is faster to any size disaster and has the best equipment available to restore your property and get you back in your home as quick as possible.

A Dripping Faucet Can be Destructive

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Ring Ring… Ring Ring… Ring Ri… Snooze.

If you’re like most Americans, 57% to be accurate, you hit the snooze button on your alarm at least once every single morning. Whether that extra 5 or 15 minutes is going to benefit or hurt your morning, that is entirely up to you.

Drip Drop… Drip Drop… Drip Drop…

Unfortunately, there is no snooze button to stop the flow of water or prevent further water damage. Once water damage has occurred each minute that you snooze yourself away from taking action against it can become more and more harmful towards your property. Within minutes of the water leak, piping malfunction, or one of the other numerous ways water damage can occur, the water quickly spreads throughout your property. Absorbing into walls, floors, and other easily susceptible areas of your home. Your personal belongings such as photos, important documents, family heirlooms, and electronic devices can be completely destroyed and unsalvageable during that first 15 minute window.

Spring Spring… Into Into… Action Action…

Locating your water shutoff valves can be a hassle when you only have a few minutes left on the clock to prevent further damage. Don’t catch yourself snoozing – it is important to know the location of all your major water shut off valves so that you can quickly spring into action and minimalize the damage to your home and belongings. While 15 minutes of extra sleep goes by in a flash in the morning; that 15 minutes is all the leaky pipe needs to destroy memories while taking cash out of your pocket. As a 24/7 restoration company SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is “Faster to any Disaster” – never hitting snooze on our alarm clocks. Give us a ring at 503.427.9535 and we will drop what we are doing to spring into action for you.

Don't Let a Flooded Building Ruin Your Summer Fun!!!

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

Although the rain is mostly gone, the risk of a flood is not. Now that summer is here it is important to monitor the quality and strength of your infrequently used pipes. Everyone loves filling up the kiddie pool, setting up a slip n’ slide, or filling up several buckets for water balloon wars. With the added use on outdoor hoses that may have been damaged during the freezing winter, it is important to check for leaks before, during, and after use on the blistering hot days of summer.

The cost of damage caused by a broken pipe can be staggering. Depending upon the severity of the flooded area these costs can vary greatly. One of the key factors to preventing a large loss and keeping the repair costs low is how quickly the problem is addressed. The quicker you can find the water shut off valve the less money you’re going to spend on remediation. In addition to monitoring your pipes and checking for leaks, it is crucial that everyone in your family knows where your water shut off valve is in the event of an emergency. In the unfortunate event that you do suffer water damage in your home, SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is here to fix the problems so your family can quickly get back to a day of fun in the sun.

Flooded Wellness Center

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

The damage was from a plugged up drain.

A Chiropractic and Wellness center located in SE Portland experienced a plugged up drain in one of their restrooms. The owner contacted SERVPRO of Southeast Portland frustrated with what had happened to them. SERVPRO of Southeast Portland reassured the client and told them we would be able to arrive on the spot within the hour. We arrived promptly and walked the loss with the owner. The damage affected the entire building, spreading through the entire first floor going through multiple rooms as well as contaminating many contents. SERVPRO of Southeast Portland was able to go in and get the job done efficiently and effectively. The picture shows the before of the source of damage. The owner was extremely pleased with our fast response time as well as our overall remediation process. With the time it took to get everything completed and how up to date we kept the owner with the entire process through to completion. 

Portland 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (503) 427-9535

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Southeast Portland has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

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)?

About SERVPRO of Southeast Portland

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland 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’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Faster to your Portland Water Damage Situation

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Southeast Portland provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

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

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (503) 427-9535

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.

About SERVPRO of Southeast Portland

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland 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’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

5 Things You Need to Know About Water Damage

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

What do I do now?

What’s going to happen?

Is my stuff ruined?

And the most important question of all: Will my homeowner’s insurance cover the damage?

There’s no doubt about it. Water damage is extremely stressful, and the more you know about it, the better you’ll be able to decide how to address it. Here are five things that every homeowner needs to know about water damage.

1. There are different insurance policies for flood damage and water damage.

You might think that water is water, whether it’s from flooding or a burst pipe, but flood damage is not covered under homeowner’s insurance. When you report the claim to the insurance company, make sure to specify whether the claim is for water damage or for flood damage, so they can begin adjusting your claim correctly.

2. Not all water damage is covered by your insurance.

It is a good idea to look over your insurance policy and familiarize yourself with any exclusion to your water damage coverage. For instance, most policies cover sudden damage, like water damage from a really bad storm or from an overflowing washing machine. On the other hand, any water damage that happens because you didn’t maintain the property may be excluded, as well as gradual leaks that caused water damage over time.

3. Once water damage has happened, the clock is ticking before it gets worse.

When your property has been water damaged, you don’t have the luxury of waiting around for a convenient time to start the cleanup. Secondary damage from mold growth can present serious health risks associated with mold in the living environment.

Mold spores are everywhere, but they need moisture and a nutrient source to grow. And that is exactly what your wet carpet or drywall offers.

There is a 24 to 48 hour window from the time something gets wet until mold can begin to grow. After that time, mold will multiply rapidly. When mold growth is widespread, you may need the services of a professional mold remediation service to safely treat and remove the mold.

To prevent mold growth, you will need to get your property completely dry again within that 48-hour window. To do this, you’ll need to contact a company that specializes in water damage restoration and emergency water extraction such as SERVPRO of Southeast Portland. They will have the professional water removal equipment and drying equipment to get the job done as quickly as possible. 

4. Your insurance company needs to know right away.

It’s a good idea to call your insurance company right away when you discover water damage. Your insurance agent can start the claims process immediately, as well as guide you through the first steps you will need to take to protect your property from more damage, like stopping the source of the water at the main water turnoff.

Your insurance company may also direct you to a water damage restoration company that they have worked with in the past. Keep in mind that you do not have to call the company that they recommend. 

5. The pollution level of the water is important.

Water damage is categorized as one of three levels by how polluted the water source was that caused the damage.

Category 1: Water from a clean water source, like a fresh water line for a dishwasher. 

Category 2: Water that may have bacteria in it,

Category 3: Water that is highly contaminated. Think sewage backup, an overflowing toilet, or storm waters.

Even though water may start out as Category 1, that doesn’t mean it will stay that way. Any contamination that the water touches, such as dirty carpeting or soil from the ground, can change water damage Category to 2 or even Category 3. And since standing breeds bacteria, the longer the water is around, the worse the contamination of your property.

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland has all the tools and resources necessary to help with and water, mold or fire damage you may have. Give us a call! (503) 427-9535

Effects of Water Damage

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage is a problem that most property owners dread. When it rains heavily or snow melts quickly, the risk of this type of damage increases. Water can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage by damaging wood furniture, upholstery, electronics, household appliances, and plumbing equipment. Water damage also increases the risk of mold growth, which is a very expensive problem to remediate. Hiring a water damage restoration company can make the cleanup process easier to handle, as these companies employ experienced workers who know the best ways to repair or replace damaged items and help with water damage cleanup.

Causes of Water Damage

There are several possible causes of water damage. Leaky dishwashers, clogged toilets, broken pipes, broken dishwasher hoses, overflowing washing machines, leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, and foundation cracks are just some of the possible causes of water damage in homes and businesses. Floods, heavy snow, and heavy rain are other possible causes of this type of damage and can lead to having water in basements. Too much water can lead to minor problems such as water in basement areas, or it can lead to the destruction of homes and businesses. Once a home or business sustains water damage, it is important to start the water damage cleanup immediately. Starting water damage cleanup as soon as possible increases the likelihood of saving water-soaked furniture, carpets, rugs, clothing, and other items.

Categories of Water Damage

Assessing the severity of the damage is important for determining what is needed to start water damage repair and water removal. There are several different categories assigned to water damage. Category 1 refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. Possible causes of this type of damage include broken appliances or sink overflows. Category 2 water is also called gray water.  Broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage may cause category 2 water damage. Category 3 water is known as black water. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options. Class 1 is the least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Class 2 has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. Class 3 has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture. Class 4 requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete.

Restoration Process

The water restoration process is an important one. Using the right procedures and materials can help people save cherished belongings and even prevent their homes from being condemned. Water restoration companies specialize in mitigating the effects of water, but the success for water damage restoration depends on the severity of the damage and the amount of water that caused the damage. Water restoration companies may hire outside experts such as SERVPRO of Southeast Portland to assess a property and determine a water restoration and water removal plan. SERVPRO of Southeast Portland uses high-tech equipment and well-documented procedures to control water damage. Water in basement areas may only require a short cleanup process, but water in other areas of a property will require extensive remediation.

How to Control Heavy Runoff

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

All homes are designed to deal with runoff. After all, it’s why gutters were invented. Some houses and properties get heavier runoff than others, either through local weather patterns or the layout of the property itself.

In order to keep your house and property in good condition, that runoff needs to be controlled.

Why Does Runoff Need to be Controlled?

The most obvious problems caused by uncontrolled runoff is erosion. Heavy amounts of run off can quickly erode huge sections of your landscaping, stripping away the soil and plants. That same erosion can damage driveways, walks, and more.

The other danger is to the structural integrity of your house, and it’s a much bigger problem. If a high amount of water gets near your foundation, it can get absorbed into the soil and push against your foundation enough to break. Water running down the side of the house in large quantities can wear away siding, walls, and even your foundation. Eventually, that water could easily get into your foundation and flood it.

Well-Planned Gutter Systems

Gutters are your first line of defense against runoff. Instead of letting the water gather under the roof and flow down the walls, gutters capture the water and direct it safely away from you house. The key here is to make sure that your gutters are well-planned. A good gutter system will minimize water damage, be big enough to avoid clogging, and direct the water several feet from the house.

Landscaping Solutions

Landscaping solutions are all about capturing and redirecting excess water, including the water that comes from your gutters. One of the most common ways to do this is with gravel and underground drain pipes. The gravel has enough structural capability to holdup the ground, while the space between it allows the water to flow into the pipe. The pipe then directs the water to a safe drain field far from the house. These setups can be installed under a variety of locations, including under bushes, grass, soil, or even paths.

Foundation Drainage

If you find that a lot of water ends up near your foundation, then one of the best things you can do is to install a drainage system right next to your foundation. Like other drainage systems, this will consist of layers of gravel and a drain pipe.

Unlike landscaping solutions, the drainage systems near foundations are buried all the way down at the bottom of the foundation wall. The idea is to capture and redirect as much water as possible away from the entire foundation.

Foundation Waterproofing

For extra protection from heavy runoff, you may want to consider getting a waterproofing membrane applied to the exterior of your foundation. This involves excavation next to your foundation to ensure that the application covers the whole foundation sides. Once cured, the membrane forms a seamless waterproof barrier on your foundation.

Water Damage Control Tip #1 - Stop the Flow

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

Stop The Flow.

Your first priority is stopping the flow of water. If you’ve identified the appliance that’s leaking, shut off water to that appliance. If you’re not sure where the leak is coming from, shut off water to the whole house. Next, turn off electricity at the fuse box. If you can’t reach the box without wading into water, call an electrician and stay out of the wet areas.

Before removing any water, document the damage for your insurance company. Capture the extent of the water damage and all possessions impacted by the flood. Digital photos are best because you can quickly upload them directly to your agent for assessment.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible and follow their directions. Not all flooding is covered by a basic homeowners policy, so work with your agent to discover the cause and identify coverage you can qualify for. Do not remove any water before talking to them so you don’t accidentally do anything that will decrease the amount of coverage you’ll be able to claim. If the insurance company wants you to wait for an adjuster before making repairs, do so — but make sure you give them a clear picture of the damage and repairs that are immediately needed.

Water Damage Prevention Tips to Consider

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

Clean your gutters.

Gutters help water flow away from your home. If they’re stopped up with leaves, it’ll cause water to collect. Water needs to flow somewhere, so it will begin seeping into your home through walls or through the foundation. Cleaning leaves out of your gutters once a year is a sure way to prevent this from happening.

Break out the caulking gun.

See cracks in your foundation or windows? Seal them back up. It’s a cheap and easy fix to keep water out.

Keep your heat on.

If you go away for the winter, you can’t shut off the heat. If you do, your pipes will burst and you’ll come home to an unpleasant mess. Keep your heat on 50 degrees to ensure water remains a liquid instead of a solid. In its icy form, it can cost you thousands in damage.

Check your pipes.

If your pipes are in your home, but aren’t insulated, then they can still burst. No matter if your home is a toasty 80 degrees, this can still happen. Hire someone or check your pipes yourself and tuck them in with some extra insulation so that they don’t burst in winter. If you’re really worried, you can also leave cabinets open (if your kitchen is on an exterior wall) to keep warm air circulating around your pipes.

Clear your pipes.

If you have an outside sprinkler system, make sure to clear your pipes before winter comes. This will remove water from inside the pipes and prevent them from freezing, expanding, and bursting underground. Come springtime, a burst pipe in your sprinkler system could result in a serious leak that can mess with your foundation and utility bill.

Effects of Water Damage

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

Causes of Water Damage

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

There are several possible causes of water damage. Leaky dishwashers, clogged toilets, broken pipes, broken dishwasher hoses, overflowing washing machines, leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, and foundation cracks are just some of the possible causes of water damage in homes and businesses. Floods, heavy snow, and heavy rain are other possible causes of this type of damage and can lead to having water in basements. Too much water can lead to minor problems such as water in basement areas, or it can lead to the destruction of homes and businesses. Once a home or business sustains water damage, it is important to start the water damage cleanup immediately. Starting water damage cleanup as soon as possible increases the likelihood of saving water-soaked furniture, carpets, rugs, clothing, and other items.

Categories of Water Damage

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

Assessing the severity of the damage is important for determining what is needed to start water damage repair and water removal. There are several different categories assigned to water damage. Category 1 refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. Possible causes of this type of damage include broken appliances or sink overflows. Category 2 water is also called gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness of ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage may cause category 2 water damage. Category 3 water is known as black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options. Class 1 is the least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Class 2 has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. Class 3 has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture. Class 4 requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete.

Flood Damage Is #1 Natural Disaster

12/14/2016 (Permalink)

A flooded business or home is never a good thing.

Flood Damage

Floods are the number 1 natural disaster in the United States. Flooding causes damage and destruction across regions nationwide, wiping out homes and businesses. However, many residents and business owners are unaware that they qualify for flood insurance. You can take steps to reduce the financial impact of flooding before a disaster strikes. One important step is understanding your risk. Even a heavy rainstorm can cause significant flooding, contributing to flash floods, mudflows, or overtopping levees and dams.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible and follow their directions. Not all flooding is covered by a basic homeowners policy, so work with your agent to discover the cause and identify coverage you can qualify for. Do not remove any water before talking to them so you don’t accidentally do anything that will decrease the amount of coverage you’ll be able to claim. If the insurance company wants you to wait for an adjuster before making repairs, do so — but make sure you give them a clear picture of the damage and repairs that are immediately needed.

Post Water Damage Tips

12/14/2016 (Permalink)

Whether a flood is caused by ground water, falling water, or home water system malfunction, there are some best practices you’ll need to employ within the first 24 hours after the flood to ensure the safety of your home and family and give you the best outcome possible with your insurance company.

If the flood was serious enough for you to leave your home, be sure you stay safe upon your return. The Federal Emergency Management Agency warns that you should check for any visible structural damage, such as warping, loosened or cracked foundation elements, cracks, and holes before entering the home and contact utility companies if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, and sewer lines.  

Even if the power isn’t operational, it’s a good idea to go to your fuse box and turn off the main, plus all of the individual fuse connections. That way, if the power is reactivated, you’re not at risk for mixing standing water and electricity.

Protect Your Health

Even if the water in your home is clear, it could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. Wear waders, hip- or waist-high waterproof boots. In addition, wear rubber gloves to remove water-damaged possessions and to avoid contaminants. Be sure to throw out any food that may have come into contact with flood waters. FEMA recommends boiling water until authorities declare the water supply is safe.