Archived Storm Damage Blog Posts

Winter Storm Preparedness, Response, and Recovery

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Every year, homeowners experience damage from storm-related pipes bursting, roof leaks, ets.. Call SERVPRO of East York; we're here to help!

Two back-to-back winter storms, Uri and Viola, recently wreaked havoc across the Unites States. Southern states that are not accustomed to colder temperatures, snow, or ice were especially impacted by these storms. Uri and Viola have left extensive power outages, vehicular accidents, injuries, and even deaths. With Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, and a large portion of the eastern seaboard being affected, approximately 100 million people have been impacted by these two storms in one way or another.

Though these two storms have caused quite a bit of damage throughout the United States, winter storms are common, especially in eastern states, including our own: Pennsylvania. Each year, hundreds-to-thousands of Americans are injured or killed by exposure to cold temperatures, vehicle accidents on wintry roads, and fires caused by heating sources. SERVPRO of East York wants members of our community to be safe and prepared for winter storms!

WINTER ADVISORIES, WATCHES, AND WARNINGS TO BE AWARE OF:

Blizzard Warning- Severe winter storm conditions, reducing visibility.
- Considerable accumulation and/or blowing of snow, which reduces visibility to ¼ mile or less for 3+ hours AND
- Sustained winds, or frequent gusts of wind that are of 35+ miles per hour.
Winter Storm Warning– A significant, and possibly life-threatening, combination of hazardous winter weather is occurring or imminent.
- 5 or more inches of snow/sleet within a 12-hour period or 7 or more inches of snow/sleet within a 24-hour period AND/OR
- Enough ice accumulation to cause damage to trees or powerlines AND/OR
- A life-threatening of snow and/or ice accumulation with wind.
Winter Storm Watch– Potential for significant and hazardous winter weather within 48 hours. A Winter Storm Watch does not mean that significant and hazardous winter weather will occur, but only that it is possible in your area.
Ice Storm Warning– Projected ice accumulation of ¼ or more in your area.
Winter Weather Advisory– Any amount of freezing rain OR when 2-4 inches of snow, alone or in combination with sleet & freezing rain, is expected to cause a significant inconvenient, but is not serious enough to warrant a warning.
Freeze Watch– Potential for significant, widespread freezing temperatures within the next 24-36 hours.
Freeze Warning– Significant, widespread freezing temperature are present or expected.

PREPAREDNESS: WHAT TO DO BEFORE THE STORM

Winterize your vehicle to reduce your chance of being stranded during a winter emergency.
Stock your vehicle with: a windshield scraper with a small broom, a bag of non-clumping kitty litter (for gaining tire traction in a pinch), a book of matches in a waterproof container, a brightly colored piece of cloth (to tie to the antenna if you get stuck), a first aid kit, extra clothing/blankets, a flashlight, and jumper cables.
Keep a home-emergency kit, including flashlights and a battery-operate radio.
Keep an emergency non-perishable food and water supply in your home.
Properly insulate your pipes to protect them from freezing.
Have your home’s heating unit inspected each year to ensure that heating sources are installed properly and operating safely.
Make sure your home is properly insulated. Install storm doors/windows or cover windows with plastic (from the inside) to provide additional insulation.
Establish an emergency evacuation plan in case you lose power or heat.

RESPONDING: WHAT TO DO DURING THE STORM

Stay indoors when possible, and avoid driving.
Wear warm, layered, clothing.
Keep your body replenished, and your energy maintained, by eating and drinking regularly.
Stretch before going outside to avoid muscle injury. This is especially important if you plan on going out to do snow removal (shoveling, snow blowing, etc…)
Walk carefully if going outside, always being mindful of potential ice.

RECOVERY: WHAT TO DO AFTER THE STORM

Avoid driving or traveling until conditions have improved.
Avoid overexertion when shoveling.
Assess your home for any damage
Alter your emergency response plan based on your experience.

CALL THE EXPERTS:

If you, like thousands of others each year, experience water or fire damage from a winter storm, call SERVPRO of East York at 717-665-1270!

Preventing and Responding to Frozen Pipes

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Brrrrrr.... It's that time of the year again!

With snow starting to fall in East York and surrounding counties, it is safe to say that the Holiday season is amongst us! Though snow can be beautiful to look at, lower temperatures bring threats beyond frostbite: FROZEN PIPES. Now is the time to learn more about how you can avoid frozen pipes and the associated water damage that can occur if your home’s pipes expand and burst. While a common occurrence, frozen pipes are highly preventable, and acting now can help you and your family in the long run!

EXPERT TIPS FOR PREVENTING FROZEN PIPES

As members of our community, SERVPRO of East York County would like to extend some knowledge to our friends and neighbors! The following tips will help you and your family in preventing your pipes from freezing:

Maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home. If you will be leaving your home unoccupied over winter months, leave the heat on and set your thermostat no lower than 55° F.
Ensure that all exposed pipes are properly insulated. Pay special attention to where pipes may be unheated; unheated areas may include areas such as basements, attics, garages, crawl spaces, and under the cabinets in your kitchen and bathroom(s).
Remove and drain any hoses that are outside of your home.
Close any inside valves that supply water outdoors, Open outside valves to properly drain any excess water remaining in the pipes.
In especially freezing temperatures, let your faucet trickle. Running water is far less likely to freeze than resting water.

EXPERT TIPS FOR THAWING FROZEN PIPES

If you turn on your faucet and only a few drops come out, you may already have a frozen pipe. Typically, frozen pipes are those that run along exterior walls, or where your water service enters your home through the foundation. If you are reading this blog because your pipes have already frozen, SERVPRO of East York County is Here to Help! Our Team has come up with the following tips to help you thaw out your frozen pipes before they expand and burst:

Leave the faucet on while treating frozen pipes. Flowing water will help melt the ice as you go!
Apply heat to the frozen section of the pipe by using an electric heating pad, a hair dryer, or by wrapping pipes with towels that have been soaked in hot water.

NEVER use a blowtorch, kerosene heater, propane heater, or other open flame device.

Check all faucets in your home to see if you have any additional frozen pipes; if one pipe freezes, others may have frozen as well.

Steps In Storm Damage Restoration

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

This is an example of storm damage in a customers home that SERVPRO of East York came to dry out and restore.

Storm restoration has become a common activity as incidents of storm damage continue to increase. Natural disasters have been on the rise occasioned by human activities that have played a role in promoting climate change. Common natural disasters that ca lead to storm damage include tornadoes damage, hurricane damage, river flooding, ice damming, ice damage and snowstorms. A flooded home often suffers from roof leaks, roof damage, structural damage, and water damages due to flooding and excessive ground water. Professional storm restoration services will help you with home restoration after flooding occurs or your home suffers a wind damage, a hurricane damage, or a ice damage. A flood pump helps you pump out flood water or excess ground water quickly. They will also need to fix frozen pipes that prevents water from flowing out and ice dams that may lead to roof leaks.

Below are the various steps that are involved during professional storm remediation.

1) Make an emergency contact with your service provider
After a flood water or excess ground water hits your home, the first step of water restoration is making an emergence call to your local water restoration company. You should be able to inform the water restoration company of the level of flood water or ground water in your home to enable them prepare sufficiently for the storm remediation. Local storm restoration companies provide their services on a 24/7 basis and you can call their offices at any moment. Roof damages due to storm damage can lead to roof leak and you will need to seek emergency roof repairs.

2) Ensure that you are safe from any potential risks.
Storms comes with various risks that can threaten your safety and you need to take preventive and precautionary measures. The first source of risks in case of a flooding is the power sources in our home or business and you need to ensure that all power sources are switched off immediately. The home restoration company should determine the river flooding levels, amount of flood water, wind damages, ice damage, hail damage, and river flooding levels at the beginning of the storm remediation. A flood pump can be helpful in getting rid of flood water or excess ground water and eliminating the risk of water damage for your households. In case there are broken pipes or frozen pipes, they will need repairing in addition to fixing any roof leaks.

3) You should document evidence of storm damage.
You must document evidence of water damage, ice damage, hail damage, wind damage, and roof damage. Documentation of evidence is important, as it is important for insurance claim forms filling. In case you used a flood pump to get rid of water, you can take photographs, record videos, and record any relevant audios. Ice dams can lead to ice damming and this can lead to frozen pipes that are beneficial as they can cut water supply.

4) Notify your insurance agent of the storm damages.
After you have done documentation of storm damages, you should notify your insurance agent so that they can initiate the process of compensation. In case the insurance company needs to carry out an inspection, they can do it as soon as possible when the state of your damaged property is still intact.

5) You can seek Federal Disaster Assistance when in need of extensive storm remediation.
The federal governments has an elaborate program to help those affected by river flooding, wind damage and other forms of natural disasters. The federal government provides subsidized loans to allow victims restore their homes by paying for minor services for roof repairs and water restoration. This makes it easy for you to cope with ice damming, flooding, hurricane damage, and hail damage.

6) Management of ice dams, wind damage, hurricane damage, hail damage, and roof damage
Home restoration after a flood will involve minor ad major repairs such as window and door repairs, household replacement, restoration of water and electric supply, and checking for ice dams. A home restoration process should begin as soon as possible to minimize damages from hail damage and potential roof repairs. You should ensure that frozen pipes due to ice damming and frozen dams are heated up to restore water supply. In storm restoration, dehumidifiers are used to absorb water moisture and water suckers to allow the restoration personnel to pump water out using flood pumps. A roof repair is also important in fixing minor roof leaks.

SERVPRO Saves Facility From Closing

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technician completing water restoration caused by storm damage.

Even the best building designs are put to the test by mother nature. This time in the form of hail.

The internal gutter system of a technologies facility in the Mount Joy area became clogged when quarter sized hail rained down as violent thunderstorms devastated the area overnight. Storms so severe it appeared that a tornado had touch down in the Susquehanna Valley.

With a mixture of ingenuity, and professional know how; our technicians assessed the damage that resulted from the overflow of rain water throughout the facility, and quickly took action.

With minor disturbance on the office staff, and shop employees, the Mount Joy based technologies company was able to remain open, and in full swing of operations. A valuable asset to any company is knowing that though the situation seems bleak, it's no match for the professional training SERVPRO technicians have.

Till next time Mother Nature, as SERVPRO East York stands strong for the community.

Contact us at (717)-665-1270

Storm Precautions

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

This is an example of water damage after a heavy rain storm caused by an issue in this customers home structure that was not previously taken care of.

Storms are not just a seasonal occurrence, they can take place at anytime and can at times be very unpredictable. Precautionary measures can help limit the amount of storm damages to your home or business.

Precautionary measures:

Be aware of your communities severe weather warnings to better be able to prepare yourself and your home or business.
Avoid using electric appliances.
Always follow warnings about flooded roadways.
Avoid activities that involve using water, such as, showering, bathing, and washing dishes if possible. During a storm, lightening can travel through plumbing systems.
Keep up with the structure of your home or business to avoid excessive water or wind damage from a storm.

It is better to prevent as much damage as possible.

SERVPRO professionals of East York are trained and certified in an assortment of services that help people recover and restore any property damage.

Call us anytime with our 24/7 service provider at (717)-665-1270

Restoring your storm damage

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

An example of a leaking roof caused by storm damage that our SERVPRO employees were called on to restore.

Natural disasters have been on the rise lately due to an increase in human activity that has promoted climate change. Storm damage is the number one result of these natural disasters, such as, hurricanes, tornadoes, and even heavy rains and flooding. We understand that these disasters can catch you off guard and be an immense inconvenience, which is why our team at SERVPRO of East York are ready to get you through this experience at any time.

Structural damage after these disasters can lead to more problems in your home or business if not treated right away. Our professionals at SERVPRO of East York are trained in all aspects and are able to restore any roof and structural damages, fix any leaks, and extract any water to limit damages and loss to your home or business.

We're here to help 24/7 with our emergency service provider! Contact us anytime at (717)-665-1270

Don't let a storm get the best of you.

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee repairing damage on a customer's roof after a storm.

No matter how properly built a home or business is, storms and inclement weather can cause substantial wear and tear on a structure overtime. There is never a convenient time for hurricanes, tornadoes, heavy rains, and snow storms to occur, so it is extremely important that you are prepared and know how to handle these situations when they arise.

Storm Preparedness:

Get inside a safe location until the storm passes.
Secure any outdoor objects or furniture that you believe may blow away or cause damage.
Shut windows and secure doors.
Unplug electronics and equipment if you expect flooding to occur.
Store important documents and/or valuables in a dry, weather resistant location.
Call SERVPRO of Western Lancaster to assist you with repairing any damage the storm may have caused to your home or business. Like it never even happened.

Storm damage you can expect:

Flooding from heavy rains or run-off
Wind damage
Water damage

Storms and natural disasters can happen at any time of the day which is why we are proud to say that SERVPRO of Western Lancaster has trained professionals that offer 24 hour emergency services 7 days a week and can help you with any sized disaster. Call today at (717)-665-1270

We're Ready to Help After the Storm

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO of East York team is ready to help after the storm!

Approximately 98% of all National, presidential-declared disasters are weather-related, leading to approximately 650 deaths and nearly $15 billion in damage each year. Severe weather can occur at any time, anywhere. On average, Americans cope with severe weather in the following capacity each year:

10,000 Severe Thunderstorms
5,000 Floods or Flash Floods
1,300 Tornadoes
2 Land-falling Hurricanes

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Knowing the risks of severe weather, taking action, and setting a positive example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life, while assisting in saving the lives of others:

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KNOWING THE RISKS:

The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather can impact you, your business, and your family. We recommend checking the weather forecast regularly, obtaining a NOAA Weather Radio, and learning about Wireless Emergency Alerts in your area. Severe weather comes in many forms, and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazardous scenarios.

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TAKING ACTION:

Before The Storm

Develop a communication plan.
Build or purchase an emergency supply kit.
Unplug electronic equipment before the storm arrives.
Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
Get inside a building, home, or hard-top vehicle (not a convertible).
Shut windows, close blinds and curtains, shutter windows (if able), and secure outside doors.
Store important documents and valuables in a safe, weather-resistant location.

During The Storm

Use a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords, including corded telephones.
Unplug appliances and other electrical items. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
Avoid contact with plumbing and standing water. Water and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
Stay away from windows and doors.

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SETTING A POSITIVE EXAMPLE: Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with family members, co-workers, and friends on social media. Your preparedness efforts may inspire others to do the same.

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Contact SERVPRO of East York County for more readiness tips and tools, including SERVPRO's Emergency READY Profile (ERP). Having an ERP in place for your facility can help minimize business interruption in the event of a disaster. SERVPRO of East York County is here to help!

Cold Temps=Cold Pipes

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Give your pipes a helping hand this winter season.

If your pipes run through a cabinet or vanity open the doors to give your pipes some warmth from the warm temperature of the room. If there is no doors to open, just leave the water trickle from the faucet. The cost of the water running is a LOT lower then the cost of a frozen pipe being repaired.

If you would forget to leave the water trickle or a door open, here is what you can do to thaw the pipe.

Turn off the main shut-off valve. Use warm air from a hair dryer or space heater to melt the water frozen inside the pipe. NEVER leave the space heater unattended. After the pipe is thawed slowly turn the main shut-off back on. When the water is running throw the pipe check for any cracks or leaks which could of been caused by the freezing.

If you have a burst pipe, shut off your water and give us a call! We are here to help!

When Storms or Floods hit York County, SERVPRO is ready!

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Western Lancaster specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Lancaster County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 717-665-1270

Spring Cleaning Chore Checklist

3/6/2017 (Permalink)

By Cynthia Ewer, Author of
Complete Idiot's Guide to Getting Organized

March winds blow, telling us that Spring is on the way!

Warming breezes scour the last of winter from house and garden. Spring rain awakens the earth and calls forth new life.

Meet the rising sap with a new broom. Spring clean indoors and out to prepare home and hearth for the return of warm weather.

Our Spring cleaning chore checklist will help you take care of important seasonal chores and welcome Spring to an organized home.

Around The House:

Schedule a family garage clean-out. Create efficient storage for sporting goods, camping equipment, recreational vehicles, and garden tools. You'll have the jump on summer fun!
Inspect, clean and repair outdoor furniture.
Tour house exterior and grounds. Make a list of any needed seasonal maintenance.
Inspect the roof for winter damage: leaks, missing or broken shingles or tiles. Arrange for any needed repairs early; roofing contractors can be hard to find during summer's construction season.
Use a sunny Saturday to scrape, prime and paint peeling spots on trim or woodwork. You'll protect wood against Summer's heat and moisture--and prevent a more difficult paint job come fall.
Clear away any remaining dead foliage and weeds from beds and lawn. New growth will be protected from damage or disease.
Begin major Spring landscaping projects. Spring's the time to put in shrubs and trees, but check with your local extension office for specific planting recommendations for your area.

The Inside Story:

Changing seasons, changing clothes. Hold a family wardrobe check as you bring out warm-weather clothing. Sort winter clothing for discards and donations before you store.
Hold a garage sale! Declutter house and garage to turn trash into cash. Build your yard sale savvy here.
Pick a weekend and enlist the family for Spring cleaning. Many hands make light work! Reward the team with dinner at a pizza parlor.
Wash windows inside and out.
While at the window area, check drapes and window treatments. Vacuum any dust; send dirtier drapes to the cleaners.
Move furniture and vacuum beneath it.
Arrange for a spring inspection of cooling systems. Don't wait for the first hot day! Air conditioning firms will give better service when they're not busy.
When the weather warms, deactivate heat system humidifiers. Check the system manual for instructions on how to power down for the summer.
Drain sediment from hot water heaters.

CONTACT US

Call our office: 717-846-6100
Visit us: 30 W. Sunhill Rd. Manheim, PA 17545
Visit our website: www.SERVPROEastYork.com

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (717) 846-6100