Recent Water Damage Posts

Toilets Cause Water Damage Too!

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

You never know when you will need emergency water restoration services, but when you do, you can count on the professionals at SERVPRO® Here are some great tips for inspecting and preventing toilet failure:

  • Be patient after you flush and wait for the valve to completely finish refilling the tank and bowl. If an overflow looks imminent, lift off the tank cover, lift the float to shut off water flow to the tank, and then turn off the supply valve.
  • Twice a year, inspect a toilet’s components, such as the fill, supply, and flush valves and the supply line. Make sure you can turn off the water supply. If you have older screw-type valves that are hard to turn or start leaking, consider replacing them with simpler ball valves that are easy to shut off quickly.
  • Sewage backups should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. Our technicians have the training, equipment, protective gear, and experience to safely restore sewer backups.

When your home or commercial business has a water damage emergency, SERVPRO® is Here to Help. ®

What To Do When A Pipe Breaks

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

When bursting pipes leave your home flooded, it’s normal to panic. No one is expecting to see water gushing into a previously dry room.

The best thing to do when a broken pipe causes water damage in our area is to call a professional. Remember, a flooded room can cause the following:

  • Water damage to walls, furniture, and belongings
  • Damage to insulation, which must then be replaced

Standing water can also attract insects, so it is important to address the broken pipe and flooding as soon as possible. The following tips will help you stay protected throughout the process while providing you with peace of mind.

Stay Calm and Turn Off the Water

It can be easy to panic, but try to stay calm and remember that the first step when you have bursting pipes must be to stop the flooding. To turn off the water, you’ll need to find the stop valve on the water main. You can usually find this where the main service line connects to your house, or under the kitchen sink. You should make sure everyone in your family knows where the shutoff valve is located so the water can be turned off quickly in emergencies.

Get to Safety and Call a Professional

Once the water has been shut off, you should immediately get to safety. This is especially important if the water is contaminated, as it can be a serious health hazard. Once you are safely in a dry area, call a professional to fix the broken pipe and clean up the mess.

Trust the Professionals to Dry the Area

Even if the water damage from bursting pipes initially seems minor, you should contact a professional water restoration company when you have water damage in our area, professionals will ensure the area is dry and free from mold and bacteria, keeping you and your family safe.

Don't Let Water Wait!

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

The age-old question, what happens when water damage sits for too long in a home or commercial property?

Basically, the worst.

The First Hour

Water will spread throughout your home ruining paper goods, finishes on white furniture, and sometimes cause permanent staining on flooring.

The First 24 Hours

In the first 24 hours after a water damage has occurred, drywall begins to swell and breakdown, an odor will begin to appear, usually musty or sour. The paint on the wall will begin to blister, windows/doors begin to warp, metal can begin to rust, and mold can even start to grow on furniture and other surfaces.

Forty-Eight Hours Later

The safety concerns for any one in the house increases drastically. Anyone who has a heightened sense of allergies or mold will become irritated and even sickly. The damage cost goes up by thousands and more property begins to breakdown and become unsalvageable.

Water damage is not a friend to your home. Once water damage occurs, it is important to call for help to get the water cleaned up as quickly and efficiently as possible. Water damage experts are standing by, and at SERVPRO® of Daviess County— we are here to help 24/7 and 365!

How To Prevent Water Damage in Your Business and Home

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Two pieces of SERVPRO green quipment drying out brown carpet in a water damaged home. Orange SERVPRO house in corner This home was water damaged, and we are working to dry out the carpet for reuse!

Fire and water damage are the two main reasons that SERVPRO is contacted, but many people do not realize that even with fire jobs, often times water damage is also present after putting out the fire. But the most common reason we are called to a home or business to clean up water is because of a busted pipe.

HOW TO PREVENT DAMAGE

The easiest thing to do is to prevent damage from happening by looking for leaks, and checking pipes for cracks. The next step is to educate yourself and others around you. Do this by learning how to properly cut off water supply throughout the home or building.

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?

This is the quickest way to ensure that no more water can pour into the home and create more damage.

Water pipe damage per minute:

A ½ inch pipe can spill up to 50 gallons a minute

A 1-inch pipe can spill up to 210 gallons a minute

A 2-inch pipe can spill up to 850 gallons a minute

A broken pipe can cause a lot of damage if not found quickly. This is why it is so important to prevent as much damage as possible when in this situation. SERVPRO of Daviess County, Kentucky is Here to Help ® at a moment’s notice with 24/7/365 services available. Give us a call anytime, day or night!

Theme of the Month – May

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

Theme of the Month – May

Now that Spring has sprung and the weather is heating up, it is the time of year when many people take their normal cleaning duties to the next level and deep clean. This year, add another task to your list that you may not always think about, maintaining your home water heater!  

When you provide proper maintenance, you can extend the life of your homes water heater and prevent any damage from happening in the future. Many of SERVPRO of Daviess County’s water calls have a water heater involved, which makes it a prime target for issues to arise.

6 Maintenance Steps:

  1. Insulate the Pipes
  2. Insulate the Heater
  3. Test the TPR Valve
  4. Check the Anode Rod
  5. Drain the Tank and Wash Out Sediment
  6. Adjust the Temperature

For more information visit:

https://www.thisoldhouse.com/plumbing/21016402/how-to-maintain-a-water-heater

Water loss? Trust SERVPRO of Daviess County!

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Water loss? Trust SERVPRO of Daviess County!

What can you expect when calling SERVPRO of Daviess County?

You can expect both timely, and friendly service on the phone when you call. Our trained representatives are ready to help the second you are connected. Our goal is to make the job as easy as possible to help put your mind at ease every step of the way, and this is the first step in that process.

SERVPRO also strives to…

Response Time

Our goal is to get onsite as quickly as possible to prevent more damage from happening to your home, business or contents. We do this by being open 24/7/365, even on holidays and weekends.

Quick Service

Emergency jobs will have a crew member onsite within 4 hours.

Visual Inspection / Verbal Briefing

“Should I file a claim or pay out of pocket?” is a question we often get.

Our team members have the ability to walk a property and to see what would be the best course of action for the home or business owner when it comes to their payment method. We want the decision to be the best for the client, whether that be out of pocket or through insurance.

Let us make it “Like it never even happened.”

WINTER ROAD CONDITION WARNING!

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

WINTER ROAD CONDITION WARNING!

Wednesday, February 10, 2021 – Thursday, February 11th, 2021, there is a severe ice storm warning for a large portion of Kentucky.  Through these days, it is advised to take extreme caution while traveling, and staying home is encouraged to prevent accidents. Weather.com states that significant ice and snow mixture will be hitting us during these days, and the possibility of power outages and tree damage are both are very high.

This week the temperatures are predicted to continue to stay low. Because of the possibility of power outrages, make sure you take precautions TODAY against frozen pipes in your homes or businesses. A few ways to do this are listed below.

Drip your inside faucets to keep water moving through pipes.

Cover outside faucets with specialized covers. You can get these at most stores, but also through Amazon Prime!

Open interior doors to promote air flow in the home.

Keep garage door closed to keep warm air inside the home or business.

Cabinet doors with pipes in them should be left open to promote warm air flow inside.

If you do experience any type of water loss or leak, give SERVPRO of Daviess County a call. We have experienced crews available to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Theme of the Month – December

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Theme of the Month – December

During the winter months, the amount of calls we receive regarding water damage skyrockets. During the month of December, we are focusing on this, and giving tips to help our readers prevent this from happening to their business or home!  

Here are a few preventative measures to take to help against your pipes from getting too cold:

  • Keep the Thermostat Consistent and Leave the Heat Above 55° F
  • Open Cabinet Doors
  • Keep Your Garage Doors Closed
  • Drip Faucets
  • Open Interior Doors

If you were not able to avoid your pipes freezing, here are the first steps to take to avoid damage to your home:

First, find the water main shut-off valve. Second, turn on the faucet so thawing water can flow freely and begin to relieve pressure. Third, slowly warm the pipes with a space heater or hairdryer to look for cracks. Fourth, look for any type of water damage caused by small leaks. Last, give us a call right away if you find any damage before it gets worse. We can make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Daviess County, Kentucky – 270-683-1888

Theme of the Month – October

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Theme of the Month – October

During October, we are focused on encouraging families to take their fall home maintenance head on! There are many different things you can do this time of the year to prevent damage from happening to your property, but here are our top 9!

  • Fertilize Your Lawn – This is a great time to get a jump on next year and go ahead and fertilize. This gives the seeds all winter to work their way deep into the ground.
  • Check Winter Equipment – Make sure you have a good snow shovel or snow blower, and that each vehicle has ice scrapers or anything else they may need. Taking care of these needs early may really come in handy later!
  • Check Fire and Carbon Monoxide Device Batteries – This should be done at least twice a year, but fall is a great time to start building the habit!
  • Clean or Replace Gutters – Nonfunctioning gutters can cause water leaks in your home
  • Check for Window Drafts – Having tight seals around doors and windows prevents warm air from escaping
  • Drain and Store Outdoor Hoses – Putting away hoses during the winter season ensures there will not be water trapped that could freeze and expand, causing a water loss or leak
  • Store Outdoor Furniture for Winter – This can include putting it inside, or using covers to protect it from the harsh conditions
  • Fix Any Cracks in the Driveway – Small cracks can quickly grow when small amounts of water freeze and expand. Filling in the cracks now can prevent a lot of headache later!
  • Change Your Air Filters – If you have not been changing your filters regularly, this is a great time to start. The less debris in your filters, the better your system can run, minimizing the strain put on the system!

As you can see, several of these tasks are also related to preventing a water leak or loss in your home or businesses. Winter is a harsh time of the year, and every little bit of preparation helps!

Local Water Damage from Flooding

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Our area has not experienced very much rainfall in the past couple of weeks. This weekend, things changed when there were several intense downpours. With so much rain coming down in a short length of time, there could be consequences to many homes and businesses that sit in low areas.

SERVPRO of Daviess County, Kentucky is not new to flooding situations. Over the years, around 80% of the jobs we have encountered have had some type of water damage related to it. Because of this, SERVPRO understands that the longer a water job sits, the worse the damage gets. SERVPRO is open 24/7 for this very reason, and is ready at a moments notice to respond to jobs.

Early into the weekend, we already had several worried clients calling in, requesting emergency services.

If you are experiencing water damage or have any questions, give us a call at 270-683-1888!

3 Categories of Water: Clean, Grey & Black

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

When it come to water jobs, there are multiple types of categories that it can fall under.   

Clean Water, Category #1

Clean water typically comes from broken water supply lines, sink or tub overflows, or any other water line, such as a line to an ice maker.

This water category comes from a clean, sanitary source, and poses little to no risk to humans or animals when exposed.

Grey Water, Category #2

Grey water typically comes from overflowing toilets (with or without urine), sump pump leaks or discharged water from appliances such as a dishwasher or washing machine.

This water category is when it comes from a source that contains significant contamination. The contamination could include either chemical, biological or physical elements that could cause illness or discomfort to anyone exposed.

One thing about grey water, if it is left too long, grey water can quickly turn into black water. This can then cause even more damage to your home and health.  

Black Water, Category #3

Black water contains sewage, seawater, and overflow from bodies of water.

This water category is when it is considered very harmful to both humans and animals. This contamination includes unsanitary agents, dangerous bacteria and fungus, and toxic substances. This category has a very high risk of causing illness and exposure should be avoided at all costs. The only way it is safe to be exposed to Black Water is if you are a trained professional in properly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE).

Top Preventative Water Loss Tips:

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Top Preventative Water Loss Tips:

  1. Check Your Bill: Pay attention to any large (or even small) spikes in water usage on your bill. It could even show up as a few dollars a month, but it could be. This may be your only sign there is a problem!
  2. Beware of Trees: While having trees is great for the environment, and to have around, you need to be careful about what types of trees you plant close to your home or any other buildings. The key is to plant trees with non-invasive roots at least ten feet away from your home, and trees with invasive roots at least 25 feet away.
  3. Maintaining Appliances: It is important to check your appliances for any issues, and make sure they are working properly. Over time, small leaks can cause big problems if not quickly and fixed in a timely manner.
  4. Take Action: Once you see a spike in your water bill, or find a problem area, it is time to fix it! Make it a priority, so no further damage is caused. If you do ignore the problem, you can also have mold growth in the area!

Call SERVPRO of Daviess County, Kentucky when you detect a problem, and we can help make it “Like it never even happened.”  

Preventative Roof Maintenance Tips

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

As years go by, your roof goes through regular wear and tear. While eventually needing replacement, there are still several things you can to help prolong life of your roof.

Check for Normal Wear and Tear

While roofs naturally wear out, there may be times where slight damage that can be easily fixed without replacing the whole roof. Several times a year, take the time to inspect your roof yourself (or professionally) for any issues. Having these issues immediately repaired can also cut down on costs!

Maintain Gutters

Gutters being properly taken care of and installed is very important the roof to properly drain, and remove water during rainstorms. Check that gutters are properly installed, and secure. It is also a good idea to semi-annually clean them for the best drainage possible.

Check for Storm Damage

After storms, check for any obvious damage that it could have been caused. This includes missing shingles, damaged shingles, or any flashing that has come loose from the roof.

Keep Your Roof Clean

Debris on your roof can cause extra stress and can cause issues. Keep an eye out to make sure there is not any buildup of limbs or leaves. These items on the roof for long amounts of time can also cause mold or mildew to begin growing, and erosion.

If you notice any issues with your roof, feel free to give SERVPRO a call. We are now providing roofing services, including repairs and replacement. We also have financing options available.

Prepping for a Spring Break Vacation?

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to a vacation, you probably have everything planned, and are excited to get on the road to your destination. But as you are planning your Spring Break trip this year, it is important to take preventative measures against issues while you are away.   

Inspect Potential Water Issue Sources

Windows- Especially in older homes, it is important to check the seals around the windows, and make sure they are still in good condition. If not, take a few minutes to touch up before heading out the door.   

Large Appliances- Dishwashers, clothes washers, refrigerators and water heaters all have pipes or hoses bringing and taking water from them. Take the time to check them, and make sure the hoses are all in good condition, and there are no risks of issues while you are gone. Another way to see if there are any leaks is to check under the appliance, and make sure there are no slow leaks impacting the floor.

Exposed Pipes- Walk around your home, and check to make sure all outdoor (or in the garage) pipes are well insulated against the cold.  This will cut down on the chance of them busting.

Guard Against the Elements

When vacationing during the winter months, many people shut off their heat while they are gone. The better option would be to simply lower the thermostat, so that your home is not getting so low you risk pipes freezing. If you do lower the temperature, you can also leave your cabinet doors open, so warm air is circulating around the pipes.

House Sitter

While you are gone, have a house sitter come by a few times and ensure that no issues arise while you are gone. This will not only prevent any potential damage from being worse, but it will also put your mind at ease and help you enjoy your vacation even more!

Theme of the Month – January

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Theme of the Month – January 

During January, our Marketing Team is working to educate on the public on how we should be your #1 choice when it comes to any type of cleaning, or disaster cleanup work! Everyone knows us for being the green trucks that clean up fire and water, but we are much more than that. We handle mold, biohazard, regular cleanings, vandalism, rebuild projects, and much more!

For our insurance agents we work we, we want to remind you we should be the FIRST call you make when a potential claim comes across your desk. We can be your eyes and ears onsite and can help judge if it would be best to make a claim, or do a self-pay. We are there to assist you and your clients to make the best decision possible.

Give your local Marketing Representative, Matt Bray, a call today at 270-670-4677!

#TipTuesday - The Broom

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

When cleaning up the house, most of us use a broom to sweep up dirt, dust, crumbs and anything else that ends up underfoot. But, when was the last time you thought about what all is trapped between those bristles? 

When going through your cleaning routine, it is important to remember to clean your broom every now and then. If you have a broom with plastic bristles, it is really fast and easy to sanitize it. Simply get a bucket (or sink), fill with hot water, and add in dish soap, and a little bleach. Mix together with the broom, then let soak for 15-20 minutes. 

Once it has soaked, rinse well, and let completely air dry. 

Doing this can significantly cut down on germs, and can make your broom last even longer! 

#TipTuesday #Cleaning 

#TipTuesday - Cleaning Sponges

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

One of the most popular tool to clean both bathrooms and kitchens have been around a long time. While they do a great job cleaning up, have you ever thought about what all is sucked up into them? 

With being a moist, warm environment, they are the perfect breeding ground for germs and bacteria. While most people regularly replace their sponge, did you know you can easily disinfect them between switch outs? 

All you need is your sponge, water and microwave. 

Wet the sponge, place in the microwave, and turn it on high for 2-3 minutes while keeping an eye on it. Once it is done, open the door and let it sit for a few minutes to cool. 

Your sponge is now germ free! You can also add lemon juice to the sponge for a great smelling microwave and kitchen. 

Theme of the Month - July

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Theme of the Month – July

SERVPRO of Daviess County, Kentucky is working hard to educate our contacts on all the different services we provide. This month, we are focusing on a couple of different things about us you may not have known about that can save you $$!

One of the biggest goals of our company is to abide by the 1-4-8 rule. This rule means that we are to respond to any calls that come in within 1 hour. There will be a first responder onsite to assess the damage within 4 hours. We will be able to give a verbal briefing to the agent, adjuster or homeowner within 8 hours. Sticking to this goal is helping us save our clients money down the road. The faster we are onsite and getting to work, the less damage you will experience!

On the other side of this, we also provide a FREE service for any business owners in our coverage area. After scheduling an appointment, our Service Marketing Representative for the area will come in and gather information about your business. They then turn that information into a file for you to keep on hand in case of disaster.

4th of July - Fire Safety 101!

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

It is finally July! We are over halfway through the year, and it is time for one of America’s favorite holidays: Independence Day. While this holiday is celebrated by all, it is also one of the most dangerous holidays for what people use to celebrate, fireworks.

Below are some ways you can ensure your party stays safe for everyone attending:

  • Before starting the shooting off process, get a hose or bucket of water ready to put our sparks
  • Make sure children are being supervised the entire time, even if they are just playing with sparklers
  • When setting up the fireworks, do not use metal or glass containers to hold them upright
  • Wait a couple of minutes after the fireworks show to ensure each firework has fully went off
  • Never point or throw them at others, even if they have not been lit yet
  • When purchasing fireworks, avoid any that are packaged in plain paper bags. These have likely been used as displays and could be damaged
  • Stand beside the fireworks, not over when lighting them
  • After lighting a firework, get as far away as you can
  • Before purchasing, also make sure there is not a firework ban in your area
  • When the fun is over and you are cleaning up, it is a good idea to wet the leftover pieces of fireworks to ensure they do not go off in the trashcan and start a fire

Use caution and enjoy your holiday! If there are any fire issues, SERVPRO of Daviess County, Kentucky is on call 24/7, and can respond even on holidays. Feel free to call us and have a professional come out and look at your problem!

https://www.allprodad.com/10-fireworks-safety-tips/

Theme of the Month - May

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Theme of the Month - May

During May, SERVPRO of Daviess County, Kentucky is highlighting what over 50% of our jobs involve: Water Damage.  

When we receive a call about a new fire job, we know there is probably some type of water cleanup needed on top of fire and soot damage. You do not think about it, but the water used to douse the blaze is creating a different type of damage. Now there is water and fire damage in the home or business.  

When these water issues are not addressed in a timely manner, mold can start sprouting also. With mold taking 72 hours to start setting up, so it is important to call the professionals quickly.

Below are 5 Ways To Avoid Water Damage:

  • Looking under kitchen appliances regularly for any slow leaks
  • Look for basement leaks
  • Watch for water bill usage spikes
  • Regularly replace washing machine, dishwasher and refrigerator hoses.
  • Turn your downspouts to pour away from your home or business

9 Moving Tips for Your New Home

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

Springtime is one of the busiest times of the year for the realty business. Now that spring has officially sprung, here are 9 helpful tips for anyone moving!

  1. Change your locks: If your new home has had multiple owners, chances are there are spare keys floating around. Changing the locks ensures that no one has a copy and can get into your home without your permission.
  2. Before moving in, plan emergency exits: Doing this ahead of time ensures that you do not place furniture in the way of anyone’s outdoor exit.
  3. Find your circuit breaker box: Locating this ahead of time can save you time when you need to get to it quickly! If each breaker isn’t labeled, this is also a good time to figure out what they are and label them.
  4. Review home inspectors report: When purchasing a home, you typically get an inspection done before closing. Look over this report thoroughly and make sure there is not anything that needs to be taken care of before moving in. Then file it away where it won’t get lost in the shuffle!
  5. Deal with anything water related: While some things on the report can wait, water issues cannot. When there is water present, mold can set up within 72 hours. Taking care of these issues quickly can decrease the chances of having issues later.
  6. Change your alarm batteries: Changing these as soon as you move in will ensure they are all working properly, and you know when to change them again.
  7. Look for places to caulk: While the home is empty, look for anywhere that could use extra caulking. Doing this before you more in can be significantly easier and better in the long run.
  8. Clean the gutters: Making sure the gutters are cleaned out and in good condition is something else that can benefit you in the long run. While you can wait to do this until after you move in, it is still something you want to do before you forget about it.
  9. Get your carpets cleaned: The best time to get carpets cleaned is before you start moving in. Once you move in, there is added costs associated with moving your items around while cleaning. There is also added peace of mind when you know the environment you are moving into has been professionally cleaned.

https://www.realtor.com/advice/buy/before-you-settle-into-your-new-home-make-these-changes-immediately

Theme of the Month - April

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

Them of the Month - April 

SERVPRO of Daviess County, Kentucky works hard to keep our work as smooth as possible. When a disaster impacts their home, this is a very stressful time for the families or homeowners involved. With SERVPRO being mainly known as the company with “the green trucks” or “the water cleanup company”, throughout the month of April, our representatives are working on highlighting ALL of the major services we provide.

When you have an insurance claim or a job in your home or business, there are a lot of moving parts. You may need more than one company working together to put it back “Like it never even happened.” This is where SERVPRO comes in. With us also having a rebuild/reconstruction department, mold mitigation services, regular home and post construction cleanings and more, we strive to be there for each of your needs in house.

If you see our representatives out and about this month, you might see what they are giving out: a 3-in-1 desk cleaning tool. This is to help our contacts remember that we are a one-top-shop for all their needs!

Beware of Broken Pipes! #PolarVortex

1/31/2019 (Permalink)

The first half of winter was pretty mild, but the second half is making up for it. With a Polar Vortex hitting the United States, everyone is scrambling to stay warm and avoid having to get out in the cold. Many schools, businesses and colleges have shut down for the time being, but not SERVPRO of Daviess County, Kentucky. With Owensboro seeing such low temperatures and wind chills, we are already seeing many homes and businesses’ water pipes freezing and busting.

While this might not seem like a huge deal at the time, the longer the water sits, the worse the damage becomes. It is important to call professionals in to take a look, and clean up the spilled water as soon as possible. With SERVPRO being open 24/7, we can easily come take a look and give you a quote.

Continue to drip water through the pipes, and try to keep them as warm as possible, until the temperature comes back up. Doing this can help avoid this tragedy happening to you too!

Theme of the Month – January

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

It’s the New Year! The 1st of the year is always a great time to restart and put new goals in place. SERVPRO of Daviess County, Kentucky went along with this thought process when we set our January 2019 theme of the month. With it being the 1st of the year, we want you to think of us FIRST!

The FIRST person you call when you have a disaster claim

The FIRST person you think of when you have any cleaning needs

The FIRST eyes and ears on a loss site

To remind our clients of this FIRST concept, our Marketing Representatives have been giving out lime green, “#1” shaped ice scrapers throughout the month. Even though an ice scraper is not something you use every day, they are nice to have when you do need them. The same concept applies to SERVPRO, we are nice to have when you need us. Call us at 270-683-1888 for any of your needs!

6 Ways to Avoid a Winter Water Loss, by SERVPRO & The Weather Channel

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

Throughout the winter season, there are several preventative measures you can take against your home having a water loss. Typically, winter water losses are caused by frozen pipes. There are several ways you can prepare ahead of time against this happening:

Putting your garden hose away for the winter and putting on a faucet cover

Add insulation in the attic

Attach insulated pipe sleeves in your exterior pipes or crawlspace  

Here are a few more measures you can take once the temperature is below freezing:

Open the kitchen and bathroom cabinet to help the warm air circulate around your plumbing

Drip your faucets (it doesn’t have to be much!)

Use a fan in the doorway to move air into the colder rooms in the home

 ---------------------------------------------------

SERVPRO and The Weather Channel teamed up to share these tips through a video. Click the link below to view:

https://www.facebook.com/SERVPRO/videos/578010849311157

5 Appliances That Could Cause A Water Loss

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Throughout your home there are 5 appliances that if not properly taken care of could cause a large water loss:

Hot Water Heater- The average life of a water heater is around 12 years, and 70% of their failures are because of leaks or bursts. Make it a habit to regularly check for leaks, inspect the anode rods, and piping.

Refrigerator- Your ice maker is the part of the refrigerator that typically causes the most leaks. They also typically leak in the back where you will not notice. If you replace the lines with braided steel alternatives, it could help prevent this from happening.

Dishwasher- Dishwashers are the same with refrigerators as they can cause slow leaks that you may not notice, but can cause significant damage to your flooring. Pulling the dishwasher out and inspecting under it is the best way to avoid long term damage from happening.

Washing Machine- Over half of water damage claims are the responsibility of faulty washing machine hoses. Annually check the hoses for wear and tear, or go ahead and replace them.

Air Conditioner- If you air conditioner is in the attic, once a month go check and make sure it is not leaking. When appliances are out of site, it normally takes longer to find problems. This could cause a slow leak to happen, and cause even more damage before you even realize it is happening.

#WaterLoss #Water

National Preparedness Month - Tips

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

September of each year is National Preparedness Month. This is the time of the year the Department of Homeland Security encourages home and business owners to prepare for future disasters. Some of the ways that they suggest doing this is by:

  • Learn lifesaving skills- such as CPR and First Aid
  • Check your insurance coverage policies- They may not cover hazards such as floods, earthquakes and tornadoes.
  • Create an escape route
  • Start an emergency fund
  • Learn where gas and water shut offs are in your home
  • Sign up for local weather alerts
  • Make emergency bags for each family member
  • Consider what to do with pets during an emergency
  • Have a designated place for important documents
  • Have emergency phone numbers saved in cell phones and posted near house phones

Taking time throughout the month of September to do some of these things could really help you and your family during an emergency.

October is Fire Prevention Week!

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Depiction of the "Great Chicago Fire"

Mark your Calendars! Starting October 7th through October 8th 2018 SERVPRO of Daviess County will join the United States in Observing Fire Prevention Week.  This important week is the longest running public health observance according to the National Archives and Records Administration’s library dating back to 1925. This tradition and annual occasion was signed in a proclamation of recognition by the President of the United States.  This important week also commemorates the “Great Chicago Fire” of 1871.  This horrific event in history left over 100,000 people homeless and killed approximately 250 innocent victims.  This grisly fire was rumored to have started when a cow kicked over an oil lamp.

Don’t wait until October to check your smoke detectors.  See our Blog on “The importance of Smoke detectors.

In the event that your a victim of a home or business fire, don’t hesitate to call the professionals.  SERVPRO is there for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  We will answer and react when you need us!

Call us today! 270-683-1888

http://www.SERVPROdaviesscounty.com/

http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week

Ten Ways to Avoid a Loss

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

Use these 10 hints to avoid having a loss in your business or home- 

  1. Do not leave electronics on the floor. This includes, iPads, computers, laptops, DVD players, phones, etc.
  2. Leave a 3-4 inch gap between the back of the washing machine and the wall. This will help avoid the hose kinking near the valve connection. It is also smart to replace your washing machine hose every 5 years.
  3. Pay attention to your water bill. A significant increase could indicate a leak somewhere in your home or business.
  4. Make sure each resident in your home or business knows where the main shut-off is located. If you are unsure where this is located, contact us for a FREE Emergency Ready Plan.
  5. Have an annual professional roof inspection. This can catch problems early, and avoid larger problems.
  6. Have your plumbing pipes inspected on an annual basis for condensation, obvious leaks or corrosion.
  7. After flushing the toilet, remain in the area until the fill valve has finished refilling the tank.
  8. Make sure your downspouts are directed 5 to 10 feet away from your house. Clean all debris buildup monthly.
  9. Chemical drain cleaners can eat away at your pipes. Use a drain snake first. This is suggested every 3-4 months depending on the size of your household.
  10. Flush your hot water heater every 6 months to remove built up sediment. You can call in a licensed plumber to do this if you are unsure how.

Using these tips will help you identify problem areas in your home before a loss happens.

Feeding Local Heroes

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

Some of our local fire fighters!

We love to give back at SERVPRO, whether that be in the jobs we do, the events we volunteer at, or the aid we provide to Storm victims. One way we are giving back to our local communities is by treating some of our local heroes to a meal. Our local police and fire fighters do so much for the community, and you typically only think about them when you are in a time of need. We wanted to thank the firefighters of Owensboro for all the hard work they do and treat them to a free Chick-Fil-A meal! We are slowly catching all of the crews for the local stations and bringing in food for them. Pictured are our first three crews: Station #1, Station #2 and Station #3. Thank you for the sacrifices you all make!

Take time out of your day to thank a local hero!  

Our Story - Team Elkins

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

#TeamElkins

David Elkins, Owner of SERVPRO of Daviess County, started this journey in 2009. With the help of SERVPRO corporate headquarters and mentors across the country, the dream they envisioned became a reality. They never imagined that in 8 short years he would have three successful franchise locations covering 11 counties across the state of Kentucky and proudly be in the top 100 in the nation. Team Elkins was built on a foundation of family values, hard work, dedication and the vision to succeed. Here at SERVPRO Team Elkins, our values and work ethic have not changed over the years. We are very proud to announce that we have grown from a small office in the heart of Smiths Grove, KY to a state of the art facility on the Barren County/Warren County line. This new facility has allowed us to grow our team, better serve the needs of our clients, host meetings for the entire state and expand our services. What started with 5 employees and a box truck, has grown to 35+ employees and over 20 company vehicles making us #FasterToAnySizeDisaster #TeamElkins #SERVPRO10380

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Daviess 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 – 270-683-1888

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 Daviess County 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 Daviess County

SERVPRO of Daviess County 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 Any Disaster! SERVPRO of Daviess County, Kentucky

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Daviess County 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 Daviess County 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 – (270) 683-1888
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 Daviess County
SERVPRO of Daviess County 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.

We are an IICRC Certified Firm

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

Badges worn by WRT Certified Employees!

SERVPRO of Daviess County has worked hard to be accredited as an IICRC Certified firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

  • Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
  • Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
  • Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
  • Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
  • Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

About SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

  • One of the rules be receive this certification is that at least one employee on every job site must be IICRC Certified. We strive to keep our employees up to date with trainings and learning opportunities. If you visit our "Employees" tab on the website, you can see what certifications have been earned by which employees.
  • SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.
  • The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Beware of the Water You Don't See

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

When home or business owners experience a disaster to their property, often the first step is to start cleaning up the water with a towel, mop or even a shop vac. Although this is very common practice, what about the water you do not see? Just because there is no visible water, doesn’t mean that the area is considered dry. It is very important at this time to call on the professionals at SERVPRO® of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties to make sure your property is properly dried to prevent secondary damage to your flooring, furniture, or even the possible threat of mold growth. Our crews are available 24/7 to help in the event that something unexpected happens. We understand the importance of response time when it comes to water damage. 

Water Damage Spreads Quickly!

11/12/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Daviess County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. Team Elkins 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- 270-683-1888
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.


Team Elkins specializes in the restoration of water damage in commercial and residential properties. Our crew is highly trained and will do everything they can to restore your home to its original condition.

Water Removal Experts

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Daviess County have been ridding homes of water damage for a very long time, so we know how stressful it can be when you find your home flooded or with water damage. It is common practice for individuals with damage to attempt to clean it up themselves, but then smell a musky smell a few days later. Restoring water damage takes a certain science, which is why our crew is required to go through extensive training before they can repair your home or business. Our training gives us the knowledge and expertise to clean up your property before future damage has an opportunity to occur. Floods can happen at any point, so it's important to be prepared. We recommend that you save our number into your phone so you will be prepared in the case of an emergency! 270-683-1888!

When you can't see where the water is hiding!

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

When home or business owners experience a disaster to their property, often the first step is to start cleaning up the water with a towel, mop or even a shop vac. Although this is very common practice, what about the water you do not see? Just because there is no visible water, doesn’t mean that the area is considered dry. It is very important at this time to call on the professionals at SERVPRO® of Daviess County to make sure your property is properly dried to prevent secondary damage to your flooring, furniture, or even the possible threat of mold growth.

Our crews are available 24/7 to help in the event that something unexpected happens. We understand the importance of response time when it comes to water damage. 

SERVPRO of Daviess County 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.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today – 270-683-1888

Do you have an Emergecy Ready Profile?

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

As a homeowner or business owner it is important to have an emergency plan and contacts close by in case anything out of the ordinary and unexpected happens. In most cases you cannot fathom the amount of stress involved. SERVPRO understands that stress. In most cases people don't think about the unanticipated things that may occur to your business such as flooding, tornadoes, fire, etc. 

Pre-planning is key and SERVPRO has the experience. SERVPRO offers an Emergency Ready Program that is available to you.  Our Emergency Ready Program, also known as an ERP, is the best way to minimize and reduce any interruption in your business following a disaster.  According to the latest industry research, as much as 50% of businesses will not recover following a devastating disaster.  A majority of the businesses that had a preparedness plan in place were able to reopen for business and survive.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you can minimize the business disruption. Pre-planning will give you an immediate plan of action and serve as a type of peace of mind insurance policy.  Knowledge of what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation. 

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is a NO COST assessment of your facility.  The ERP profile document will contain valuable information that will be needed in the event of an emergency.   We will identify details such as shut-off valve locations, high priority areas, and 1st in line contact information. Our SERVPRO staff will come out at NO COST and walk you through the process. It takes very little time to complete and save a lot of time in the event you ever need it.   This Profile will get you back on track quickly in the event of an emergency or disaster because you will have a plan of action to execute.

SERVPRO of Daviess County is your local professional resource to assist you through the process of mitigation and restoration. You will have an industry leader close by and a life line to help you command authorization for the work to begin quickly.  When your business has a quick reference of what, when, how, and who to call, you are able to respond and solve decisions that need to be made efficiently. Our number one goal is to have you re-open for business while saving you time and money.

Give us a call today and set up your ERP!

270-683-1888

IICRC-Water Damage Restoration Technician Certified

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

According to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification,  “Water damage can be deceptive. Water penetrates into structural cavities creating trapped pockets of saturation. The detection of water in these areas can often only be discovered with sophisticated moisture detection meters. Undetected moisture will continue to cause damage. This damage, at a minimum, will cause odors. Greater damage will surface when materials delaminate, shrink, split and further deteriorate to where costly repairs are required.”

SERVPRO of Daviess County believes in education and making sure our entire Staff is trained and obtains as much knowledge in our industry.  When a home or business experiences a major water loss from flooding, our IICRC-certified restorers will arrive with the knowledge and equipment to dry your home or business facility back to preloss conditions.  When water damage has been present for a long period time you increase the possibility of mold occurring. Our staff will carefully monitor the amount of water damage including substructure materials.  This monitoring is to minimize possible mold and prevent health issues. “All IICRC-certified professionals have the training and experience to identify moisture sources, evaluate mold growth (visible or suspected), contain damage, remove contamination and dry materials to ensure that mold will not return.”

When water and flooding impact your home or place of business, call on the professionals to get the job done. You can reach a team member any time of the day or night. We are on standby for you  24/7, 365 days a year! We can guarantee that anytime you call, you will get a SERVPRO professional on the line to help.

Daviess County

Call Us Today: 270-683-1888 http://www.SERVPROdaviesscounty.com/


http://www.IICRC.org/consumers/care/water-damage/

Flooded Basement in Kansas City

8/7/2017 (Permalink)

8ft of flood water in basement

Shown are pictures of a home that flooded in the recent Kansas City flooding.  There was 8 feet of water in the basement.  Walls, baseboards, all the carpet, and contents were affected by the water damage. The homeowner was an elderly woman and wanted to go through everything before it was thrown out.  Our trained staff worked with her to go through the contents one by one.  She was able to recover lost items that she had thought were ruined and salvage many heirlooms feared lost forever.

Experiencing a major disaster like flooding is not something we deal with everyday.  Unfortunately this is not a ordinary or common service but thankfully SERVPRO is there when you need a company that can act quickly and handle the uncertainty and confusion that is presented to homeowners during a time like this.   This time is also very stressful and many times people have no idea where or who to turn to so poor decisions or no decisions are made which can cost the homeowner a variety of other problems such as financial or health related issues down the road.  Untreated category 3  flood water can lead to a variety of issues such as Mold.

We want every client treated with care and have every question answered while they are going through this very stressful time.  SERVPRO of Daviess County will work closely with the homeowner, insurance adjusters, and everyone that may be included in getting your home back “Like it never even happened.”

If you find yourself in an emergency situation don’t hesitate to call us.  We are available 24/7, 365 days a year. 

Request Help today: 270-683-1888