When Water Damage Strikes Your Allendale, MI Home or Business

2/3/2023 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, call SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County. We're Here to Help®

The first 24 hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage to your Allendale business or home.  Within four hours of receiving an emergency loss notification, a SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County professional will be on-site to help ensure your water damage is handled correctly by completing the following steps.

Inspection

SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County professionals will inspect the affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning any work.

Emergency Services

SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County professionals will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as property and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying.  They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step.

Monitoring

To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards, a SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County professional will monitor the drying process.  The updates will be consistently communicated with you.

Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County professionals will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets, and clean affected areas of your property and contents.  A final walk-through of the jobsite will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to its preloss condition.

Dealing with water damage at your property? Call SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County, 616-396-8180.  We can make it, Like it never even happened.®

Common Mistakes Nunica Residents Make After A Water Damage

5/14/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure not to make these mistakes after a water damage in your home or business.

When experiencing a water damage in your home, many people's reaction would be to start cleaning the mess up themselves.  As it is good to stop the source of water and remove excess water, the most critical mistake is handling everything on your own.  Below are some common mistakes that homeowners make when a water damage happens in their Nunica home:

"I put a fan on it and have a dehumidifier running."

Many of our mold jobs come from a business owner or homeowner that decided to turn their water damage into a DIY project.  SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County has technicians specifically trained in water restoration through the standards and best practices of The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).  There is a science to drying, and SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County technicians are experts in it.  They also use advanced commercial inspection and extraction equipment to dry and restore as efficiently as possible.

Waiting Too Long

Life is hectic, we understand; but when water damage affects your home, immediate action is key.  The longer water sits, the more damage to your home.  Taking care of the situation promptly can save you a lot of time, stress, and money.

Not Understanding Your Homeowners Policy

Many homeowners do not even know which insurance carrier they have, let alone know what is included in their policy.  Make sure to get with your insurance agent before a disaster strikes to know what type of coverage you have.  If you live in a high flood zone, you should consider adding flood insurance since that is normally not covered by your homeowners insurance.  Also, if you have a sump pump, look into an endorsement, or rider, for a sump pump failure.

Do not make these mistakes.  If you're dealing with a clean water damage, there are some tips that you can do while waiting for SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County to arrive.  Call us today, 616-396-8180

Sewage Backup Causes For Your Holland, MI Home

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

This basement bathroom was affected by a city sewer main backup.

Sewage backups can be an extremely devastating event that can happen to just about any business or home in Holland.  There are three main reasons why you may experience a sewage backup.

• Clog - if you have a singular trouble area that experiences a backup, like a tub or sink, it most likely is a clog and can be fixed by cleaning the drain.  If all drains in your home or business are backed up, there is a blockage at the main drain that is causing the issue.  The overflow will continue and will cause extensive damage to your entire home or business until the blockage is removed.
• Tree Roots - roots of large trees in the area of a sewer line can often cause severe problems.  They can grow into the pipes and cause holes and blockages.  They can also wrap around the sewer line and crush it.
• Damaged Sewer Lines - older properties usually have older sewer lines that have not been upgraded.  All pipes and sewer lines in older homes were built using cast iron and clay which can wear off with time, get rusty, and easily break down.  New sewer lines are made out of plastic and cannot cause these issues.

Sewage backups can be hazardous to your health and cause a great amount of structural damage to your home or business.  If you experience a sewage backup, do not attempt to flush the toilet.  Do not use harsh chemicals to attempt to clear the drain.  Leave the clearing and cleaning to the professionals, as SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County helps to ensure your damage is mitigated according to industry standards.

If you have experienced a sewage backup, call SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County today, 616-396-8180, we are Here to help®

Zeeland, MI Rental Property Water Damage

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

This damaged wall was caused by a pipe burst.

Instead of selling their home, many homeowners are transforming them into rental properties after relocating to a different city.  It is a great way to make some extra income, but managing a rental from miles away also comes with some challenges.  This out-of-town landlord learned the hard way after their tenants in Zeeland packed up and moved out without letting them know.  A pipe in the basement wall had burst leaving the landlord with a complete mess.  The following are some tips to overcome physical distance:

1. Choose Trustworthy Tenants - since you won't be able to get to your rental quickly, it's extremely important that you trust your tenants.  When renting to someone you don't know, make sure to thoroughly screen their rental history before allowing them to move in.  Make sure to have them complete a rental application, and contact their references.
2. Have a Handle on Maintenance - if you are renting a detached home, you may want to hire someone to regularly attend to yard work and keep walkways and the driveway clear in the winter.
3. Ask Someone to Check-In - since a house offers more privacy this can lead to more mischief.  Enlist someone you know in the area to be your eyes.  If there is a problem, this person can let you know immediately, and even act as your property manager and check-in if needed.
4. Make Friends With Repair Professionals - maintenance, repairs, and other complaints all come to the landlord, when you are out-of-town you have to find other ways of dealing with these situations.  A handyman, electrician, and plumber are good people to have in your contact list.  If there is ever an issue that needs to be fixed immediately, you can call on them to get the job done and bill you later.
5. Communicate Often - as a landlord, it is your responsibility to establish regular communication with your tenants via phone, email, or text and maintain the line of communication throughout their tenancy.  Provide them with various contact methods, as well as additional contacts, and ask the same from them in case of an emergency.
6. Get Insurance Coverage - the type and amount of insurance you need depends on the type of property you are renting.  There is insurance for hazards, flood, theft, equipment breakdowns, lost rental income, and liability insurance for damages.  Ask your tenant to get renters insurance to make sure their belongings are protected if a damage occurs.
7. Hire a Property Manager - managing a rental property from afar requires excellent time management, communication, and patience.  Attending to your property yourself can save you money, but it also costs you time.  Hiring a property management company to oversee your rental may increase overhead, but it can also be the right thing to do if you are not interested in dealing with tenants, managing the property directly, or do not have the time to invest in caring for the property yourself.

If your rental property has experienced water damage, call SERPVRO of Holland / West Ottawa County today, 616-396-8180.  We are Here to Help®

Water Damage and Your Insurance Policy - What You Need to Know

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

It's important to know what is included in your homeowners insurance policy.

We have been receiving more and more calls about pipe bursts.  Many of these damages have been covered by homeowners insurance.  Below are a few questions that you may have regarding your homeowners policy.

1. What damage is covered by my insurance? If your Robinson home experiences water damage from a broken or leaky pipe, the subsequent damage cost will likely be covered by your homeowners policy. If the water damage is the result of a broken pipe cause by freezing weather or a sudden accident this will usually be included in your policy; but check your policy for specifics.
2. What damage is not covered by my insurance? If your insurance company believes the pipe has broken as a result of negligence, you will most likely be denied coverage.  This could happen if you have failed to maintain your home or have not taken proper precautions to prevent freezing pipes during cold weather.  Waiting too long to contact your insurance company can also be a reason for denial of a claim.
3. What should I do when I discover water damage? As soon as you start to notice any water damage you should contact your insurance carrier.  You should also hire a professional plumber to fix the source and a water damage restoration company to mitigate the damage properly.  While waiting for us to arrive, you can document damages for your insurance company and follow these Water Damage Emergency Tips.

Has your Robinson home suffered water damage from a broken pipe? Call SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County today, 616-396-8180, we are Here to help® 24/7

Emergency Water Damage Tips for Your Coopersville Home

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

This water damaged basement was caused by a broken water heater.

Waterfall coming through your ceiling from a pipe burst?  Basement flooding due to a sump pump failure? Came home to your kitchen flooded because your cat turned on the faucet and it ran for hours? If you find yourself in one of these situations follow the tips below after calling SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County:

• Shut off the water source if possible.
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.
• Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
• Do not leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpeting.

Following these tips will help minimize damages to your Coopersville home until help arrives.

If your home or business has experienced water damage, call SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County ASAP, 616-396-8180.  We are Here to help® 24/7

Tips For Solving Winter Woes in Your Ferrysburg Home

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

Don't let these winter woes ruin your winter.

Living in Michigan can bring extra headaches for homeowners in the winter months.  The following are some issues that may arise and tips for solving them.

• Window Frost - when your windows are exposed to moist air inside your home and cold air outside, frost forms on them.  It can be beautiful but damaging.  Finding the right balance of heat and humidity is key.  If you still have single-paned windows you may want to think about replacing them with double-paned.
• Ice Dams - these occur when heat rises in a house with poor insulation.  The heat melts the snow on the roof, then refreezes in the unheated eaves.  This happening repeatedly forms a dam along the eaves forcing more water to back up under the shingles leaking into your home potentially causing damage both inside and outside.  Ventilation and proper insulation are key to preventing ice dams.
• Icicles - although very pretty, icicles can be dangerous.  They form when sunlight or another heat source causes rooftop snow to melt, then refreezing at the edge of the roof.  If your house has icicles the problem is your attic.  You will need to properly seal, ventilate, and insulate your attic.
• Freezing Pipes - in the cold winter water expands when it freezes.  Any water sitting in your pipes runs the risk of causing a fracture or a complete burst.  Maintaining your home at a safe temperature, between 55 and 60 degrees, and properly winterizing outside will help to avoid a major disaster.  Just in case, make sure to know where your main water shutoff is!

If your Ferrysburg home has experienced water damage from one of these winter woes, call SERVPRO of Holland / West Ottawa County, 616-396-8180, we are Here to Help®

Faster to your Spring Lake Water Damage Event

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Holland/West Ottawa County provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Spring Lake

Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we.  SERVPRO of Holland/West Ottawa 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 Holland/West Ottawa 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 - 616-396-8180

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.

Ankle deep in water? Call SERVPRO of Holland/West Ottawa County today, 616-396-8180, we are Here to Help!

Spring Thaw Tips

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure you're prepared for the spring thaw with these tips!

Spring is about a week away.  Temperatures will continue to rise which can lead to flooding and water damage.  The following are some tips to help prevent flooding and water damage in your home:

• Clean out your gutters/drainage systems - ice, water, and debris can build up over winter causing blockages in your drainage.  Before the spring thaw, make sure to clear your gutters and downspouts of debris.  Also check that the melting snow and ice is draining properly.
• Clear your roof - snow can accumulate on your roof after a long winter.  Once the temperature rises, all that snow can lead to a significant amount of water, which can overflow gutters, loosen shingles, and potentially cause flooding inside your home, affecting insulation, ceilings, and walls.
• Fill in any cracks and look for mold - like your roof, your windows, doors, walls, and ceiling can sustain water damage over time, especially in winter.  This is often due to poor air circulation and damp conditions.  Do some early spring cleaning and patch up cracks in the drywall and replace caulking or seals around windows.  If you encounter mold, it's important to have it taken care of properly by a water cleanup and restoration company such as SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County.
• Check your property - sometimes we don't realize that the slope of our property is actually directing water from melting snow or heavy rain right into our homes or places of business until it's too late.  Home and business owners can prevent flood damage by checking the lot grading on their property and take the necessary steps to make sure that water is being directed away from a home or building instead of towards it.
• Protect your basement/crawl space - a sudden rise in temperature can cause snow and ice to melt at a rapid rate, which can leave our basements and crawl spaces vulnerable to flooding.  Prepare ahead of time by cleaning any snow and ice away from perimeter drains outside your basement/foundation, and install sump pumps to deal with any water clean up issues inside your basement.  A flood alarm is another way to protect your home or business if your basement is susceptible to flooding.

If your home or business has been affected by the spring thaw, call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County, 616-396-8180.  We are Here to Help!

3 Causes of Winter Home Water Damage

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County is Here to Help you with your winter water damage

Water damage can occur at any time of year.  Cold temperatures and inclement weather can combine to trigger winter weather damage such as leaks, bursts, and water intrusion.  To reduce seasonal risks, be aware of the following common sources of water damage in winter:

• Frozen Pipes - ice forming in a water supply line can cause internal pressure and rupture pipes, releasing hundreds of gallons per hour.  Make sure to install pipe insulation on all supply pipes potentially exposed to freezing temperatures such as in the crawl space or attic.  When a hard freeze is forecasted, open faucets slightly to drip to relieve pressure if pipes freeze.  If water flow stops during extreme cold, assume a pipe has frozen.

• Ice Dams - when the underside of the upper portion of the roof is disproportionately warm, snow melts faster.  Water runs down to the colder portion of the roof then freezes again, obstructing flow of runoff into gutters.  Pooling water then seeps through shingles and sub-roofing and causes water damage in the attic.  Uneven roof warming is caused by excess attic warmth.  To prevent ice dams, make sure the attic is properly ventilated to remain uniformly cold.  Seal ceiling cracks, gaps and other openings with caulk to prevent unnecessary heat loss into the attic.

• Snow Melt - melting snow around the perimeter of the house can saturate deep into the soil and leak through the foundation and basement walls.  Make sure to shovel any accumulated snow away from the house before melting occurs.  Seal cracks and gaps in the basement wall and, if you don't have one, install a sump pump.

Has your home been affected by winter weather damage?  Call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County, we are Here to Help, (616) 396-8180

Technology to Find Hidden Moisture

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Thermal Imaging helps SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County find hidden moisture

Sometimes you might now know exactly what has been affected when you have a water leak.  That is where thermal imaging comes in handy, showing the areas that are not seen as wet with the naked eye.  

A thermal imaging camera can detect slight temperature differences inside your home.  It detects where moisture has infiltrated walls, carpeting, etc.  The camera creates a visual map so that our technicians can pinpoint the location of leaks and moisture.  Brighter colors (red, orange, and yellow) indicate warmer temperatures (more heat and infrared radiation emitted) while purples and dark blue/black indicate cooler temperatures (less heat and infrared radiation emitted).  The thermal imaging camera detects the radiation in a way similar to the way an ordinary camera detects visible light.  It works even in total darkness because ambient light level does not matter.

Call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County at (616) 396-8180 for your emergency water damage cleanup.  We are Here to Help 24/7 to find that hidden moisture

Drying Hardwood the SERVPRO Way

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Hardwood flooring potentially can be saved after water damage

There is a misconception that when hardwood flooring gets wet it must be removed because it is ruined.  Frequently, that is not the case.  SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County has the training and tools to evaluate and dry out hardwood flooring properly.  We use specialized drying mat systems and balanced dehumidification to dry hardwood quickly, saving you the time and expense of flooring replacement.  When evaluating water damaged hardwood flooring, the length of time it has been wet is a critical factor.  If the flooring dwells in water for too long, it is possible for the boards to cup, warp, and possibly break.  Rapid response is critical to the success of saving hardwood.

When we respond to a water damage with affected hardwood flooring, we perform a preliminary inspection.  Which areas are wet?  How long have they been wet?  And specifically, how wet is it?  We use a combination of flooring extraction mats, and a powerful truck-mounted extraction unit to pull as much water out of the flooring as possible.  After that is done, we set up our drying equipment, and start the drying process.  We return to the site daily to monitor the progress of the drying, using meters specially designed for hardwood.  Once the moisture level in the wood reaches an acceptable level, the hardwood flooring can be inspected by a flooring contractor.

Looking to save your hardwood flooring from water damage?  Act fast and call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County, (616) 396-8180, we are Here to Help!

Roof Snow Removal Tips

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Look up - rooftop snow removal is important

Homeowners in Michigan take pains to clear off driveways and walkways during the winter.  When your focus is the snow on the ground it is easy to forget about the snow on your rooftop.  The combination of freshly fallen snow with the melting and refreezing of snow can place stress on the roof of your home.  If more than a foot of heavy, wet snow, and ice have accumulated on your roof, you should remove it.

The following are tips on how to safely handle the rooftop snow removal process:

• Never do it alone - hire a professional or get help from a neighbor/friend/relative
• For pitched roofs, use a snow rake which you can find at hardware stores
• Start removing snow from the edge and then work your way into the roof
• Shave the snow down to two or three inches instead of trying to scrap the roof clean.  Doing so will let you avoid damaging your shingles or any other roof covering
• Always remember that metal tools will conduct electricity when touching a power line and they can damage your roof
• Shovel the snow from flat roofs and thrown it over the side, away from the building
• Keep gutters and drains clean and free of ice and snow

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County is Here to Help if you experience any water damage, (616) 396-8180

Household Appliances Most Likely to Cause Water Damage

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Five appliances that can cause the most leaks in your home.

Certain appliances or systems in your home can actually increase your risk of flooding.  Below are the top sources of water damage:

• Hot Water Heater 69 percent of failures are due to a leak or a burst.  A small investment in an annual inspection will help prevent leaks and the expensive repairs that come with it.  Be attentive to corrosion and other factors as your heater ages and replace it every 10 years.
• Refrigerator The most common cause of a leaky refrigerator is the defrost drain having a freeze or clog.  You'll need to thaw the ice and flush your drain with hot water.  Improper sealing can cause excess condensation in an attempt to keep cool.  Check the rubber seals along the door to assure a tight close.  Also, your ice maker can become the ultimate mess maker, check the hose or waterline to assure they are connected properly.
• Washing Machine Leaks around or clamps in the water hose are a warning sign of future failure.  The six most common sites for washer leaks are the inlet connections, hose connections, center post gaskets, outer tub seal, air dome and pump.  Do a monthly personal inspection on your hoses to look out for cracking, dryness or rust, leaving space between the machine and the wall for movement as the wash cycle is running.  Replace your hoses every five years despite their outward appearance.  Don't forget to follow your washing machine instructions and turn off the water supply when you leave home for vacation.
• Dishwasher When a dishwasher overflows, often the cause is simply that someone put too much detergent, or the wrong type of detergent, into the dispenser.  In other instances, the malfunction may be due to a faulty float switch assembly, a strainer clogged with food and detergent debris or one of many plumbing connections.  If you dishwasher is over nine years old it may be time for a replacement.
• Toilet Overflows happen because the toilet has a clogged drain or because the float is malfunctioning, which allows too much water into the tank.  If plunging doesn't solve the problem, the problem may be in pipes outside, which would require a professional plumber.

If you have experienced water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County, (616) 396-8180

How To Prevent Backups

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Water and sewer backups are something that no homeowner wants to experience. It has the ability to do a large amount of damage in a short amount of time. Although backups are never completely avoidable, here are some tips that can help!

• Maintain your sewer lateral. A lateral that's cracked, deteriorated or filled with tree roots will allow groundwater to seep in.
• Dispose of grease properly. When grease cools off, it'll solidify either in the drain or the main sewer line.
• Dispose of paper products properly. Paper products that are not meant to be flushed take a long time to deteriorate.
• Consider plastic piping. Tree roots can't break through plastic piping.
• Correct illegal plumbing connections. Some areas do not allow flood control systems to be connected to your sewer because it can cause debris and silt to clog your line.
• Consider a backwater prevention valve. This will allow sewage and water to exit but not re-enter.

Preventative Maintenance

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen due to a variety of reasons. However, there are ways that you can help prevent water damage to your home or business.

Toilet:

• Be patient after flushing to ensure an overflow isn't imminent
• Inspect your toilet's components at least twice a year

Water Heater:

• Inspect your anode rod every two years
• Flush the tank every six months to remove sediment by attaching a garden hose to the valve at the base
• Get an annual inspection from a plumbing professional

Washing Machine:

• Inspect supply line hoses regularly for wear
• Tighten the connection if it feels loose
• Replace the supply hose with a reinforced steel braided hose
• Replace the supply hose every 5 years

Plumbing:

• Never pour grease down the drain
• Plant trees away from lateral drain lines
• Install a backflow prevention assembly if you are connected to a city's sewer system or located downhill or below street level
• Call a professional if you notice signs of a plumbing problem

Below Freezing Dangers

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

When the temperature starts to drop below freezing, bad things can easily happen. One of the most common winter disasters are frozen pipes. If you have never experienced it, consider yourself one of the lucky ones. A frozen pipe has the ability to do tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage to your home or business. The pipes most likely to freeze are:

• Pipes that run outside
• Water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets
• Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation

One of the best ways to prevent frozen pipes are to add additional insulation to your home or business. If frozen pipes are something you experience often, it may be worth relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection. If you experience a pipe break that floods your home or business, call immediately.

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County: 616-396-8180

Discovering Water Damage

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

If you have ever experienced water damage, you know the challenges that come with it. More times than not, a larger area is affected than you think. There are a few things that you can look out for to detect water damage:

-A Soft Floor: If the subfloor in your home is made of wood, water damage will slowly begin to rot it and make it soft.

-Smell: If you notice a real musty/moldy odor anywhere in your home, it is likely that you have water damage.

-Warped Walls: Moisture will easily wick into baseboards, drywall, and more causing it to soften and warp.

-Visible Mold: The most obvious sign of longer lasting water damage is mold growth. Mold has the ability to grow within 48 hours of water damage.

High Water Table

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

When water tables begin to rise drastically, you can expect flooding to occur. Many homeowners who live in areas not known for flooding can experience water damage. That is why it is important to check your basement and crawlspaces regularly for signs of water damage. If you have elderly family members or neighbors, offer to stop over and check their basements as well. Flooding that goes unnoticed for long periods of time can easily result in disastrous damage to a home. If water damage sits for more than 48 hours, mold also has the ability to grow, raising serious health concerns. If you discover that your basement is flooded, call immediately. We have the ability to locate all affected areas to ensure that everything is properly dried.

Call Us Today – (616) 396-8180

Water vs. Wood

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

When you experience a water loss, things become very stressful very quickly. One important thing to remember is that time is of the essence. Many individuals who experience significant damage to their home and belongings are those who do not address it immediately. To ensure that you experience as little damage as possible, address the problem right away and ensure that it is performed correctly. That is where we come in. We work to get the moisture removed and structure dried as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. Before help arrives, it is always useful to remove as many contents from the affected area as possible. Wood furniture and contents can easily absorb water and become damaged beyond repair in a short amount of time. It is always our goal to restore as much of your property as possible.

Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today – (616) 396-8180

Dangers Of A Mild Winter

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Winter has not been too bad, but many homeowners and business owners throughout Holland and Ottawa County are experiencing water damage. Most people think that frozen pipes are the only thing to worry about in winter; however, a mild winter brings a variety of dangers. One of which are ice dams. The snow and rain cycle can easily result in ice dams that cause roof leaks. Anytime the weather fluctuates above and below freezing, bad things can happen. Roof leaks resulting from ice dams often have the ability to go unnoticed depending on the severity and result in further damage to your home or business. Check around your structure regularly for leaks and remove any debris from your gutters that may be restricting water from properly draining when the temperature warms up. 

Summer Basement Flooding

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy rains from summer storms can easily result in a flooded basement. No homeowner likes to walk downstairs and find squishy carpet. Not only is water damage very difficult to handle yourself, it also poses serious health risks. Ground water has a lot of contaminants that can result in illness. The chance of it causing illness only grows the longer it sits as well. If water damage is not handled quickly and effectively, it can result in a mold problem. If you experience water damage to your home, do not hesitate to call. The longer you wait, the more expensive and time consuming the restoration process becomes. Do not fall victim to extensive home damage resulting from summer storms. We can make it "Like it never even happened."

April Showers

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

The good news is that spring is officially here! Coming with it is often times a large amount of rain. Even though you probably spent a good chunk of time cleaning out your gutters in the fall, it is very important to give them a quick inspection in the spring as well. The reason behind this is that it is not uncommon for melting snow and rain to push any kind of debris accumulated over winter towards the downspouts. Once these are clogged, water is no longer able to safely drain from your gutters. If water begins to back up and become stagnant, it has the ability to get under the shingles and create a roof leak. It is also very important to make sure that the water draining from your downspout is not pooling up right next to or against the house. This has the ability to create additional water damage if there are any cracks in your foundation. Inspecting your gutters and downspouts may take a little time, but could save you thousands down the road.

Frozen Pipes In West Michigan

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

During the winter season in West Michigan, is not uncommon for homeowners and business owners to experience frozen pipes. When a pipe freezes and bursts, quick action is required. Be sure that you check your basement and crawlspace regularly during the winter to ensure that no broken pipes have gone unnoticed.

If you notice wet floors, walls, or ceilings, shut off your water immediately. A small amount of water has the ability to effect a large amount of your facility. The longer the water exists before it is successfully dried, the more extensive the damage will be. If you feel that the water damage is too much to handle, call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County. We have the training and equipment to make sure that your home or business is dried successfully to prevent further damages.

Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today – (616) 396-8180

Spring Flooding

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

As the snow melts throughout West Michigan and rivers begin to rise, homeowners begin to experience flooding. Many residents who live along rivers, lakes, or areas with a high water table may experience ground water start to seep through cracks within their foundation. If you live in an area prone to flooding, be sure to check your home for areas where water could enter.

A great way to prevent basement flooding in areas with a high water table is to install a sump pump. A sump pump is used to remove water that has accumulated in a water-collecting sump basin. The pump will send the water away from the house to any place where it is no longer problematic. Since sump pumps are typically hardwired into a home's electrical system, it is important to ensure that it has a battery backup should your home lose power.

Hidden Moisture

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

When you step into your living room and hear the carpet squish under your feet as your socks become wet, you know that something is wrong. Your home has experienced a water loss. Whether it be a broken pipe, flooding, roof leak, etc., your home now contains water where it shouldn't. At first glance, it may seem easy enough to throw down a few towels and break out the box fans and everything will be good as new in a day or two. Although this may appear to work, it is very likely that your home has experienced more extensive damage that you are unaware of. The drywall, foundation, wall interiors, and more could still contain moisture that may go unnoticed. This can lead to far more serious damages and could cost you thousands in repairs. 

We have equipment such as moisture detectors and thermal imaging devices that allow us to see how extensive the water damage really is. If your home experiences a water loss, we are here to help.

Post Winter Roof Leaks

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

It has been a relatively mild winter in West Michigan, for the first half anyway. January and February brought with it a variety of snow storms that dumped inches upon inches of snow. As we are approaching the tail end of the winter season, we can be thankful that the snow is soon to melt. Although it is a glorious sight to see the eves begin to drip, melting snow will reveal roof leaks to many homeowners. Gutter and roof damage throughout winter is noticed through those dreaded water stains on your white ceiling. It becomes evident that your ceiling now contains moisture and not only do you have a leak to fix, but also a ceiling to dry.

Luckily, we are the professionals that deal with these cases very often. Once the leak is fixed, we can ensure that the moisture that has made its way inside does not begin to create further issues. If you experience a roof leak, let us help!

Water Loss Warps Wood Floor

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Hardwood floor may be the touch of elegance for your home that you always wanted. It is easy to clean if you have pets and takes away the hassle of picking out what type and color of carpet you want. Although it looks great, hardwood floor can  be easily damaged if you experience a water loss. Many homeowners who have experienced water damage have reported that if not resolved extremely quickly and effectively, their hardwood floor began to warp. As a homeowner, it is crushing to see your beautiful flooring start to buckle. Although it may appear that all is lost, that is not the case. We have equipment, that if caught soon enough, can save you from replacing your hardwood floor. These mats are placed on the floor and hooked to tubes that draw the moisture up. Just when you think all is lost, we are here to save the day! 

Flooded Basement? Not Something You Want to Find!

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

The last thing you want to find when going into the basement or your lower level of your home is a pool of murky water. Flooding can happen for a number of reasons:

• Heavy rain
• Sump pump failure
• Insufficient drainage away from your home
• cracks in your foundation

And because water follows the path of least resistance, it finds cracks and holes in the foundation and fills your basement.

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County technicians are highly trained in water damage restoration to include basement and crawlspace flooding. We have the knowledge, experience and equipment to remove the water and dry out your basement properly. Once the water is extracted, we focus on the drying process to include monitoring and documentation to validate the property is dry.

We offer:

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Water Damage Restoration Specialists
• We are "Faster to Any Size Disaster"
• Locally Owned and Operated

Basement Flooding? Call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County Today - 231-733-7601

24 Hour Emergency Water Removal Service

It is never a good time for your basement to flood and that's why no matter what time of day or night it is, even holidays, SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County will immediately respond 365 days a year!

Faster to Any Size Water Disaster

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County, the Cleanup Team that's faster to any size water disaster.

You have leaking roofs or windows. A pipe breaks. Your toilet, sink or bathtub overflows. Your water heater bursts. A sprinkler system malfunctions. High water tables cause a sump pump failure. Flood waters rush in. Here are a few ways water damage can happen. If your home or business is under water, you put everything off to address the issue. Only ONE thing matters when you can't operate your business and only ONE thing matters when your personal belongings are soaked and under water: A SOLUTION.

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County technicians are the solution. We have the experience, training and knowledge to help make your water damage "Like it never even happened". SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County will start helping you the moment you call by giving you tips on what you can do until help arrives, to getting a crew out to help you in your time of need. Serving the Lake Michigan Lakeshore with more than 20 years experience, helping to ease your worries because we are experts in the science of drying. 

Give SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County a call 616-396-8180 when water damage strikes, we will get a team out to extract water, set up fans and dehumidifiers to help make it "Like it never even happened".

Understanding WATER Types

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup. There are three types of water. Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean. The term gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes gray water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants to begin growing, making the water hazardous. Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be handled by trained professionals. Consider taking the following precautions to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for help to arrive.

Damage from Clean Water

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow more even drying.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place.
• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.
• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Damage from Contaminated Water

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items.
• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.
• Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

When you have a water damage, don’t leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. 231-733-7601 24 hours a day/365 days a year. 

Preparing for a FLOOD

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding can happen fast in many environments. The American Red Cross recommends having the following list of items packed and ready to go in the event of an evacuation due to flooding.

• Water—3+ day supply; one gallon per person per day
• Food—3+ day supply of nonperishable, easy-to-prepare food
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Extra batteries
• First Aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation/personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, deed/lease to home, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• Emergency blanket
• Map(s) of the area
• Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
• Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
• Tools/supplies for securing your home
• Extra set of car keys and house keys
• Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes
• Rain gear
• Insect repellent and sunscreen
• Camera for photos of damage

Drying is a Science

2/28/2018 (Permalink)

The knowledge of psychometric is essentially restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a box fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. will follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damage.

If your home or business suffers water damage, SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What exactly does "speed up Mother Nature" mean? A wet building can often dry naturally because our environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is nature takes too long and secondary damage may occur while the building is drying out.  

For this reason, SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. professionals have been trained to use top-of-the-line equipment to help "Mother Nature" along including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. We also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying your property.  

The bottom line? SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. has the training and equipment to help make it "Like it never even happened."  

Ready for Ottawa County Winter Weather?

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not properly prepared. Whether it is heavy rain, freezing temperatures, damaging winds, sleet or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you can’t control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared, and help take the sting out of winter weather.

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions before winter weather hits.

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Roofs, water pipes and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper working order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can lead to a damming effect, causing roof damage and interior water problems.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
• Ask SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. Professionals about completing an Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no cost assessment to your facility, and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.

Flooded Basement Clean-Up & Restoration

6/16/2017 (Permalink)

How many homeowners have descended their basement steps to find a pool of murky water? Water follows the path of least resistance, finding cracks and holes through basement walls. Flooding can often be attributed to insufficient drainage around basement walls, heavy rains, a faulty sump pump, or a combination of these factors.

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. is highly trained in water damage restoration including basement and crawlspace flooding. We have the experience, expertise, and equipment to remove the water and dry your basement properly. Our water removal and drying process emphasizes monitoring and documentation to validate your property is dry.

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Water Damage Restoration Specialists
• Locally Owned and Operated

Basement Flooding? Call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. Today – (231) 733-7601 

24 Hour Emergency Water Removal Service

Basements can flood day or night, on weekends and even holidays, and that’s why SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. offers 24 emergency service, 365 days a year. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

Facts on Frozen Pipes

1/9/2017 (Permalink)

Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal and plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break. Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to severe cold.

During cold weather, take preventative action:

• Let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent freezing.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and night. You may incur a little higher heating bill, however you can prevent a much more costly repair job if a pipe were to burst.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees.

To thaw frozen pipes:

• If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water will help melt the ice inside.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe like using an electric heating pad or hairdryer. Never use an open flame.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
• Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes.

Note- If in doubt about any of the above steps or if you do not feel comfortable with the situation, it is always best to contact a licensed plumber.

In the event you incur frozen pipe damage, SERVPRO of Muskegon and Holland/ W. Ottawa County and our trained technicians are available 24/7 to assist with your cleanup and restoration needs.

(231) 733-7601 Muskegon or (616) 396-8180 Ottawa County.

Faster to any Water Loss

4/22/2016 (Permalink)

Call the Cleanup Team that's fastest to any size disaster.

A pipe bursts.  A water heater leaks.  A bathtub overflows. Flood waters rush in.  A sprinkler system malfunctions.  Water damage can happen any numbers of ways.  But if your business or home is under few inches of water, everything else takes a backseats.  Only one thing matters when your business can't operate, and there is just one thing on the mind of the water logged resident: A solution.  

SERVPRO of Muskegon and Holland/W. Ottawa County Professionals are that solution.  Equipped with the knowledge, the experience, and the training to help make your water damage "like it never even happened," SERVPRO of Muskegon and Holland/ W. Ottawa Co. will start helping from the moment you call.  Serving the Lake Michigan Lakeshore with more than 20 years experience, helping to put your worries to ease, because we understand the science of drying.  

When water damage strikes, give SERVPRO of Muskegon and Holland/W. Ottawa Co. a call; we will help to make things right,  make things dry, and make it "Like it never even happened." 

Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing in Ottawa County

1/19/2016 (Permalink)

Water Bursting Threw Thawing Frozen Pipe.

Every winter season, the pipes in your business and home are at risk of damage from freezing conditions. Low temperatures can cause your water pipes to freeze, and in some cases burst. The following tips can help you safeguard your home before, during and after a pipe freezes.

PREVENT YOUR PIPES FROM FREEZING

• Disconnect all gardening hoses and install covers on all outside faucets.
• Keep your house temperature at 68 degrees or higher, even if you're leaving the house for an extended period of time.
• Open cabinet doors below sinks to allow heat from the home to circulate.
• Identify the location of the main water valve and the valve on your water heater. (Learning the location of these valves may come in handy during an emergency.:
• Wrap pipes nearest exterior walls and in crawl spaces with pipe insulation or with heating tape. This can prevent freezing, especially for interior pipes that run along outside walls.
• Close all windows near water pipes; cover or close open-air vents. Freezing temperatures combined with wind drafts can cause pipes to freeze more frequently.
• Heat your basement and consider weather sealing your windows.
• Insulate outside walls and unheated areas of your home.
• If you plan to be away from home for an extended period of time, shut off water supply valves to your washing machine.

IF YOUR PIPES STILL FREEZE AND BURST, CALL SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County AND YOUR INSURANCE AGENT FOR IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE!!