What Should I Do Immediately After There’s Been Water Damage To My Home?

2/3/2023 (Permalink)

The winter season can be a busy time for many homeowners, and many find themselves away from their homes for the holidays. The absolute worst thing a homeowner can return to is water damage in their home. With temperatures varying from balmy to downright frigid, the winter months can bring the threat of burst pipes and severe water damage.

While we sincerely hope that you never find yourself experiencing a water damage catastrophe, we’ve put together some tips on what to do should you find yourself the victim of water damage within your home. Here’s how to deal with the immediate aftermath of a water issue and properly care for your home to avoid long-term damage.

You’ve Seen Water – Now What?

If you notice water collecting in any part of your house where it should not (we’re thinking anywhere besides inside a sink), immediately find the source of the water. Shutting off your water before finding the source of the leaking water may sometimes inhibit your ability to identify where it’s coming from.

If you think water may be collecting somewhere where electrical conduits are, you can turn off the electricity to your home to make investigating safer. Once you’ve identified where the water is coming from, shut off the water at the closest source. This may be a toilet water shut-off, or it could be your water main itself.

As you work to identify the source of the water, document the problems with the camera on your phone. Not only will this help with your insurance company and claim, but it will also help your restoration company, like SERVPRO East York, understand the source of the water and find where lingering water damage may be hiding. This helps us mitigate the damage to your home.

Water…Everywhere

Try to clean up as much water as you can using towels, mops, and a wet vacuum. Removing water from the area will allow you to begin the drying process.

Call a professional water remediation company as soon as possible. The first 24-48 hours are critical for water damage and cleanup.

SERVPRO East York is a locally owned and established company in the Lancaster, PA area, and we are a leading expert in cleaning up water and properly mitigating the damage to your home. When you contact us with a water damage emergency, we are quick to the scene and begin to clean immediately. Our highly trained water damage specialists remove excess water so we can start the drying and dehumidifying process as quickly as possible. Fast action will lessen the chance that you develop related issues after a flood, such as mold.

Notify Your Insurance Company

When you notify your insurance company and open a claim, your insurance company will most likely ask for documentation, which is when those photos you took of your water damage will come in handy. Most of the time, an insurance adjuster will not be available to come to your home immediately and the water cleanup and remediation will have already started, which is why documentation throughout the entire process is so important.

Water remediation can be a huge expense, so we recommend contacting your homeowner’s insurance company as soon as you see water and begin the cleanup process.

Remediate – Using a Pro

Water damage is truly catastrophic and can lead to secondary issues quickly. Did you know mold only takes 24 hours to grow after water exposure? This is why contacting a professional remediation company is crucial.

SERVPRO East York is fast to your home, quick to begin the process, and committed to seeing your remediation process completed correctly. Our highly trained water specialists look everywhere for water damage, not just where the big leak happened. We want to be sure that everything is properly dried out.

No one wants to experience water damage, and homeowners who have experienced it know how devastating it can be. If you experience a water leak and damage in your home, you will have a lot to do. Let the experts at SERVPRO East York take care of you and your home.

Our technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so when a leak hits your home, we’re ready. Protect your home from the possibility of mold and other issues after a water leak. Call us, or check out more about our services on our website. You can even read what our customers are saying about us too! Stay warm and dry this winter!

How to Prevent Pipes Bursting in Aging Buildings

1/13/2023 (Permalink)

While winter can be a relaxing time to enjoy a slower rhythm, a larger threat can loom silently amidst plunging temperatures and freezing conditions for those living or working in an aging building. Older pipes translate to thinner and more exposed piping that can be worn down or damaged. This may put you at risk of a burst pipe, leading to costly restoration and repair of your home or office space.

So why do pipes burst? And what puts your home or office building at a higher risk of bursting pipes? Keep reading to learn more about preventing pipe bursts, especially in aging buildings, and how you can mitigate your risk factors, keep your building dry, and put your mind at ease.

Risk Factor: Corrosion

Corrosion happens to any pipe carrying water. Older homes or buildings may be at risk for increased corrosion due to the age and material of the pipe.

As water travels through pipes, the pH levels cause corrosion over time. The inside lining of pipes becomes worn by water travel, and if the water traveling through your pipes is hard (as opposed to soft water), the elements can corrode your pipes even faster. Pipes affected by corrosion can weaken, leaving them vulnerable to bursting by built-up water pressure, a result of plunging temps and freezing water. 

If your pipes are older, consider having a water expert examine your water pH levels before potentially replacing them with newer pipes.

Risk Factor: Water Hammer

What’s that sound? Have you ever wondered what the gong sound or clang/bang is when you turn on your heat?

Commonly known as a water hammer, this phenomenon happens when you have an unsteady and uneven water flow in your pipes. The risk of pipes bursting results from uneven air pressure build-up. The presence of a water hammer in your pipes may also indicate that your pipes are worn or damaged (especially in older homes and buildings). 

Having a plumber drain and refill your pipes may help mitigate water hammer in your pipes. You can also install air valves that let off air build-up, reducing the water hammer in your pipes.

Risk Factor: Extended Leave

Winter is a time when your home or office building may be vacant for longer than is typical due to extended vacation or time off from business. Leaving a home or building vacant isn’t something you need to avoid altogether, but rather an important time to evaluate how you leave your home or office when traveling or closing.

Be sure that the temperature inside your home or office building doesn’t dip below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. If possible (and especially if your home or office building is older), have someone check on the status of your home or building if the outside temperatures make any sudden downward dips. Before leaving, ensure you’ve turned off the water inside your home. And turn off your outdoor water in the fall every year!

Risk Factor: Being Uninsured

Lastly, be insured! While being insured won’t reduce the chance that a pipe bursts, it will give you peace of mind if you end up needing repairs.

Review your homeowner’s policy or building contract to ensure that water damage is included. Double-check that your policy is up to date and explicitly covers damaged pipes. If you find that you are lacking coverage, contact your insurance company to make immediate updates to your policy. Keep in mind that water damage coverage may be nullified if you neglect to make repairs to damaged pipes.

Water Damage Remediation in East York

This winter, keep your costs down and put your mind at ease. Examine your home’s water pipes today and make a plan to mitigate potential water damage resulting from burst pipes.

If you need water damage remediation from burst pipes in your home or office building, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of East York immediately. As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, we understand the unique needs of both home and business owners. We know your home is your safe space, so we offer 24-hour emergency service and advanced restoration and cleaning equipment in our residential services department.

Likewise, as a business owner with water damage in your building, we understand that time is quite literally money. We have the capacity to remediate commercial buildings on a large scale.

SERVPRO of East York is here for you, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.

Water Damage Restoration Company near York PA

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

When you find extensive water damage in your home or business, you need a water damage restoration company near York, Pennsylvania. Well, our professionals at SERVPRO of East York are here to help you restore your property to its pre-water-damage condition—and we can do it fast.

Yes, we offer speedy 24-hour service, so you can clean up the damage with minimal disruption to your daily life. After our team has been onsite, it’ll be “Like it never even happened.” So, what makes us the restoration service of choice for so many property owners? Read on to find out!

Water Damage Restoration Services near York PA

There are so many ways water can damage your property near York, PA. Perhaps you’ve had a burst pipe—a common problem, especially in the winter months. Maybe the issue was flooding after a major storm or even from firefighting after a fire on the premises.

The damage could be anywhere, from the basement to the attic. No matter your situation, you’ll want our team onsite as soon as possible. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment to determine the scope of the problem and remove water as quickly as we can.

Then, we’ll begin the task of restoring your property and belongings to their pre-water-damage condition—a process that may involve major or minor reconstruction of the premises.

Save on Restoration With Our Speedy Service

When it comes to water damage, time is money. The longer you wait, the more likely that water will continue to spread throughout the property and cause structural damage.

Luckily, we have responders ready to go 24 hours a day, seven days a week—even on holidays. No need to wait until business hours to call! Reach out to us the moment you realize you need water damage restoration services, and our team near York, PA, will jump into action.

We have the national network to provide us with the most advanced water damage testing and restoration technology, but as a locally owned business, we also know your community well.

We’re close by and ready to respond—and we’re familiar with all the local routes, from Princess Street to Market Street and beyond.

Here’s How Water Damage Restoration Works

We realize that every water damage situation is a little bit different. However, we have a general process we apply to every emergency that has served us well for many decades in the business. That process begins with you. When you give us a call, you can expect a response at your property within hours.

Our highly trained and certified specialists will get to work immediately. Here’s what they’ll do:

1. Inspect and assess water damage. We’ll inspect and test the extent of the damage. When we know how far the moisture has traveled and where the source is, we’ll be ready to respond.
2. Remove and extract water. With powerful pumps and vacuum units, we can remove hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water from your property.
3. Dry and dehumidify. Some water is trickier to get at. With specialized air movers and dehumidifier units, we’ll dry your home or business to remove the moisture.
4. Clean, sanitize, and restore. We’ll clean your property and belongings, removing odors. We can also replace any drywall or carpets that require it—or, in severe cases, reconstruct more serious damage.

Get Your Home or Business Back to Preloss Condition

Don’t let water damage leave you high and dry. SERVPRO of East York is your ally in water damage restoration near York, PA. Our company will get your home or business back to preloss conditions as quickly as possible, so you can put this experience behind you for good.

Are you ready to move on from water damage? Wave your magic wand and give our restoration specialists a call today!

What Are Signs of Water Damage?

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Sometimes, it’s immediately obvious when your home or business has water damage. Often, water damage works more stealthily. How will you know you have water damage? The answer: Watch for the warning signs. At SERVPRO of East York, we want to alert you to five common signs of water damage, so you’ll be prepared to act if needed.

1) Dark or Wet Spots

Patches of paint discoloration can appear on your walls or your ceilings. On a white-painted surface, you may see brown-colored spots appear. These dark or wet spots are a clear sign that you have water damage in your home or business.

Don’t try to paint over the spots—that’s an aesthetic fix (and one that won’t last). Instead, immediately call a water damage cleanup specialist who can address the structural problem behind the discoloration. You likely have a hidden plumbing issue that must be fixed.

2) Flaking or Peeling Paint

Stains on the ceilings or walls are one thing—but flaking or peeling paint is another. If you notice this, it’s a major sign that water has been seeping into your drywall, and the problem has been sitting there unaddressed for some time. Water damage in the drywall can spread easily.

3) Soft or Swollen Drywall

If water damage is left to fester for too long, it can cause your ceilings and walls to swell. In some cases, a swollen ceiling could actually begin to sag. If you notice this, it’s time to have the problem addressed, so you don’t risk a ceiling collapse and the hazards that go along with it.

4) A Damp or Musty Smell

Even if you can’t see the signs of water damage, you may be able to smell them. When water is absorbed into wood and drywall and is left to sit there, you’ll quickly notice a musty scent. If you catch a whiff of something damp, try and see if you can identify the source of it. That is likely where your water damage is coming from.

What Should I Do If I Have Signs of Water Damage?

If you notice any of the above signs of water damage, we encourage you to reach out to us at SERVPRO of East York. Our specialists in water damage restoration and mold remediation can help you return your home or business to its pre-water-damage condition, “Like it never even happened.”

With decades of experience in commercial and residential water damage repair, we’re here to lend a hand when you need it!

Water Damage Restoration & Repair near Me

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

Sometimes, water damage happens—but you should never let it disrupt your home or business. Get your life back to normal as quickly as possible with quality water damage restoration and repair near you. Turn to the speedy and diligent technicians at SERVPRO of East York.

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, so you can clean up your water problem and avoid any unnecessary flood damage. Find out why our team is a trusted leader in the restoration industry.

Water Damage: Why the First 24 Hours Is Critical

When your home or business is flooded, it’s important to act quickly. In just 24 hours, the secondary effects of water damage can begin to set in. We have response teams available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Our teams respond to your water damage emergency within the first 24 hours to minimize the effects of secondary water damage. And you want to minimize these effects. The longer you leave water to linger, the more damage there will be to restore and the more costly repairs will be.

While mold and mildew growth are among the most common side effects of water damage, here are some other problems you may find if you don’t act quickly:

• Rotting, cracking wood
• Electrical problems
• Rusted metal
• Warped furniture

The sooner you call, the sooner our trained technicians can start repairing and restoring your home or business from water damage. 

A Fine-Tuned Water Damage Restoration Process

Sure, every water damage event is a little bit different. While our teams are more than adept at responding to realities on the ground, we have a general process that has served us (and our customers) well.

We’ll guide you through the crisis and our rapid response to ensure you can salvage your property and possessions. Here’s what our team will do for you:

• Inspection and assessment
• Water removal
• Drying and dehumidification
• Cleaning and sanitizing
• Restoration

Where Is There Water Damage Restoration near Me?

When you need water damage restoration and repair, work with SERVPRO of East York to make your disaster feel Like It Never Even Happened. We’re a locally owned company with the national resources to deliver fast, 24-hour service.

Don’t let floodwater compromise your home or business. Contact us today!

Water Damage and Associated Risks

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Act quickly when you discover water damage!

Throughout the United States, majority of homes are vulnerable to the possibility of water damage. Water damage can be caused by broken pipes, flooding, roof leaks, etc. Though water damage is common, most homeowners do not realize that just one inch of standing water in a home can cost thousands of dollars. Beyond what homeowners can see, they need to be mindful of additional water/moisture related threats such as mold or even termites! Though not talked about often in water restoration, termites are a problem that most homeowners don’t even consider when discovering a water loss. 

ACT QUICKLY!

Because wood is a highly porous material that rapidly absorbs and retains moisture, it is important to act quickly when you discover water damage. If not treated and managed in a timely manner, homeowners may face additional damage in the form of mold, mildew, or wood rot! Not only are these issues unsightly, but mold and mildew can be a safety issue, and cause health effects!

DID YOU SAY TERMITES?

Another issue with water damage is that it can attract termites. Yes, termites! These little pests prefer living in water-damaged wood as they need to be surrounded by moisture. Typically, termites live underground in cool, damp environments. Naturally, water-damaged wood makes a excellent replacement home for these little critters. Termites silently destroy homes, eating away at wooden infrastructure from the inside out. As they are so quiet, most homeowners have no knowledge that termites are present until they have caused tens of thousands of dollars of damage to the house!

Never fear, there are a few ways that you can identify the presence of termites in your home!

1. Check the caulking around your shower/bathtub to see if there is any exposed damp wood. If the wood is marked it could mean that you have termites in your home.
2. Check any wooden frames around the areas that were affected by water. Again, if there are markings, you may have termites.
3. Check any areas that wood was affected by water and look for bite marks (little holes throughout the wood)
4. Call a professional exterminator to assess the area.

THE TAKEAWAY

Water damage can cause a lot of problems in the home, even if it is only a small amount of water. For this reason, it is important to make sure that any damp wood in your home is properly dried out if you experience any water loss. This will reduce your likelihood of mold growth and termite infestation. If you have experienced water damage, call SERVPRO of East York at 717-665-1270! We are water restoration professionals that are faster to any size disaster!

Repairing Water-Damaged Drywall

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Handling water damage drywall can be exhausting. Call SERVPRO of East York for your water damage restoration needs.

Whether it's from leaky plumbing, a storm event, or a window being left open, there is always a chance that your walls could be subject to water damage. While large scale water damage should be left to a professional for restoration, you may choose to tackle small sections of damaged drywall on your own. The SERVPRO of East York County team of professionals utilize a 4-Step Method for repairing water damaged drywall. Below, we highlight each step of the four-step method we use so you can easily repair or replace water damaged drywall. If you're even unsure of how to proceed, SERVPRO of East York County is Here to Help!

STEP 1: Find and Repair the Leak

There’s no point in repairing a water damaged wall if you haven't removed the source of the damage first. Finding the leak that caused damage can sometimes be difficult, but you can use clues from the damage to get a better idea as to where the water is coming from:  

• If the damage appears to run downward from the top of the wall, and also affects the ceiling, a roof leak is likely a good contender for being the cause of loss. PRO TIP: You can spray your roof with a garden hose and watch for dripping in your attic to detect roof leaks.
• Water damage that is directly in the center of the wall is often an indicator that a broken pipe behind the wall is your cause of loss. PRO TIP: High-pressure leaks in pipes behind walls may make an audible hiss if you hold your ear to the wall.

With some investigating and basic plumbing knowledge, you may be able to find and repair and leak on your own. If you doubt your abilities in the slightest, contact a professional for guidance. 

STEP 2: Replace Saturated Drywall

Drywall is a highly porous material, therefore the longer it is exposed to water, the more water it will absorb. This water absorption will eventually cause your drywall to become soft and spongy. After a certain point,  your drywall may eventually start to sag inward. Unfortunately, drywall that has been saturated to this extent cannot be salvaged, and you will need to remove and replace the damaged section of wall or ceiling.

• Use a stud finder to locate the studs behind the damaged section of drywall.
• Once you have located the stud, cut straight lines around the damage using a level and a drywall knife.
• When you remove the damaged drywall, check the insulation behind it. If the insulation is saturated, you will likely need to remove and replace the insulation before putting in new drywall.
• Cut a new piece of drywall to the same size of the hole. Line up your new piece of drywall and screw it into the studs.
• Cover the seams with joint compound and tape, and then sand and paint the drywall.

STEP 3: Scrub Away Mold

In addition to soaking up moisture, the pores in drywall can make excellent places for mold spores to hide and develop. If parts of your drywall are still structurally sound but are beginning to foster mold, you can kill the mold by scrubbing the walls with detergent, diluted bleach, or a commercial mold remover. PRO-TIP: Do NOT mix chemical products together. Always read the labels and use as directed!

• Always wear gloves and a dust mask when handling mold.
• Ensure that there is proper ventilation in the room you are working in. Ventilation and the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will help protect you from spores that may be released while scrubbing.
• Spray the affected area of the wall with the solution you are using to clean.
• Scrub the wall with a soft bristle cleaning brush or abrasive sponge. PRO TIP: Scrubbing can still be effective if the wall is unpainted, but in severe cases you may need to replace the mold-covered section.

STEP 4: Cover Water Stains

Next, you will want to cover any light water stains on the remaining sections of drywall, that weren't significantly damaged.

• First, you will want to scrub the affected area with a damp cloth, or sand it to remove paint, dirt, and debris.
• Then, spray the area with a shellac or oil-based primer, that is formulated for blocking stains.
• After the primer has dried, you can simply paint over the area with interior paint. 

When in doubt, leave it to the pros!

Repairing mild to moderate water damage on drywall is not too difficult if you know the process. If you are faced with severe water damage, or are unable to locate the source of the leak, contact SERVPRO of East York County at 717-665-1270! Calling SERVPRO of East York County gives you the opportunity to work with an experienced water damage restoration professional who can restore your walls to like-new condition.

Winter Water Damage Prevention

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Know who to call if you experience winter water damage.

Though winter months bring cooler temperatures, hot cocoa, and scenic snow landscapes, winter weather also brings increased risk of water damage to your home. Winter is notorious for being cold and wet. Many people don’t realize that larger amounts of snow and ice can have severe consequences. Below are three of the top causes of winter water damage and how to reduce your risk.

OUTDOOR WATER SOURCES

When the temperatures drop, it is important to pay attention to your outdoor water sources. Neglecting your outdoor water sources could cause problems when spring comes around.

• Shut off the water to your outdoor hoses and spigots.
• Drain any water from your hoses and store them in a climate-controlled area to prevent them from freezing, cracking, or breaking in the cold.

BURST OR FROZEN PIPES

Frozen pipes build up significant pressure which can lead to pipes cracking or bursting in winter months. If a cracked or broken pipe goes undetected, they can lead to flooding once the ice melts.

• Make sure your outer walls and any exposed pipes are properly insulated.
• Be sure to caulk cracks and holes you see in your exterior walls; this can help to prevent cold air from reaching the pipes.
• Protect exposed pipes from freezing temperatures by wrapping them with the insulating tape or old towels.
• When temperatures are extremely low, or you plan to be away from home for several days, leave the faucets lightly dripping and keep the cabinets under your sink open to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. Doing so will keep water flowing and can help prevent your pipes from freezing.
• For maximum protection against hidden or sudden leaks, install a detection system that can monitor water pressure and automatically signal a water shut-off in the event of a leak or blocked pipe.

ICE DAMS AND ROOF LEAKS

Icicles may be a staple of winter, but they can be a sign that your home is in a vulnerable state. If your gutters are clogged, the snow that melts off your roof won't be able to pass through the drainage system properly. As the water trapped in your gutters refreezes, a wall of icicles will build up, eventually causing ice dams. The melt from these ice dams can damage your roof and seep into your attic, causing structural damage or mold. Any ice melt that drips over the sides of your gutters has the potential to pool next to your home's foundation and cause additional water damage. Finally, sharp icicles may break off as they melt, posing a serious safety hazard.

• Clean your gutters before cold weather comes around to keep the dangers of ice dams and roof leaks at a minimum.

CALL THE PROFESSIONALS

If you aren't able to prevent winter water damage, don't fear! SERVPRO of East York has a 24/7 emergency response team available to assist during troublesome times! Call the professionals that are faster to any size disaster at 717-665-1270.

The 6 Step Process for Water Remediation

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East York is faster than any sized disaster!

A water leak can quickly cause a significant amount of damage to your residential or commercial property. This is especially true if the leak has gone undetected for a long period of time. If you have water damage, you need fast and dependable service to get the mess cleaned up! That's where SERVPRO comes in... Below is our 6-step process for water remediation:

Step 1 - Contact:
If you know the contact information for your local SERVPRO, contact them first! If you don't know which SERVPRO is closest, contact SERVPRO's corporate hotline; they connect you to a local franchise that can assist you in a timely manner. During the initial contact, our team gathers information about the type and extent of the damage that has occurred.

Step 2 - Assessment:
The SERVPRO of East York team arrives within four hours of the initial call. Once there, they assess the damage to the property. Water restoration specialists survey the building to determine what repairs need to be made.

Step 3 - Extraction:
Before any repairs can begin, all standing water and non-restorable materials must be removed. Our highly trained technicians use industrial pumps to extract water quickly. Then they remove drenched drywall, insulation, carpet, carpet padding, tiles, and other materials that cannot be salvaged.

Step 4 - Drying:
If the source of the water damage has been a problem for an extended period of time, it has probably made the affected area very moist or wet. Not only does every surface that remains have to be dried thoroughly, but the humidity levels in the air itself need to be returned to an acceptable level. We place commercial-grade dehumidifiers, air movers, and other drying equipment to dry the area. It is important that commercial-grade equipment be used because standard dehumidifiers and fans will likely not have the capacity to remove the correct amount of moisture.

Step 5 - Sanitizing:
Often, a leaking water sources does more than just cause water damage. The water it expels may become a breeding ground for bacteria and other microbes. Therefore, every inch of the affected area must be sanitized before rebuilding can begin. We use a safe anti-microbial spray to sanitize the area!

Step 6 - Restoration:
After everything is clean and dry, the mitigation and remediation side of the job is done! SERVPRO of Western Lancaster has an in-house Rebuild Team! Our Rebuild Technicians restore your property "Like it never even happened.”
Water damage requires professional intervention. Even if a leak floods a large area, you can count on the experts to restore your property. SERVPRO of East York is fast to any size disaster!

Contact:

If you have experienced water damage, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of East York! Our phone number is 717-665-1270! We are a 24/7 emergency service provider, and are here to help!

Responding to Water Damage

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East York is prepared for any water loss no matter the size!

WATER DAMAGE:

Water damage can happen anywhere, but some areas and types of damage occur far more often than others. When problems go beyond simple cleanup and sanitation, your cleaning personnel or company may be ill-equipped to handle the consequences of significant water damage. SERVPRO of East York specializes in providing fast and efficient services, ensuring all affected areas are clean, undamaged, and pleasant-smelling after a water loss.

COMMON WATER LOSS CAUSES:

Plumbing Overflow -

A common reason for us to be called to a site for water damage is when a sink, toilet, or bathtub overflows. In commercial settings, like hotels, determining when, where, and why water damage has occurred can sometimes be difficult. At times, it may be days or more before you discover a water loss, and water can begin to leak elsewhere, causing further damages. Our team of professionals will draft a detailed assessment of the situation, and can provide an estimate of our projected work times and costs.

Water Line Leaks and Breaks -

With water lines running throughout the building, it may not be uncommon for them to leak or burst, especially if they are older. Be sure to call SERVPRO of East York as soon as you suspect that a water line may have been ruptured. The speed of our response may be critical in preventing further damages. To avoid most water line problems in your home or business, make sure that pipes receive semi-regular maintenance and checkups.

Open Windows -

Sometimes we want a bit of fresh air, so we open a window. If you forget to close the window before a storm rolls through your area, water damage can occur quickly. Rain pouring into your structure through an open window can cause significant damage to furniture, walls, and flooring, but most of the worst effects can be prevented through a quick call to SERVPRO.

WHAT OUR TECHNICIANS WILL DO:

• Assess damages and determine if site is safe
• Determine the extent of the moisture content in affected areas
• Move furniture that may hinder drying results 
• Extract water
• Remove drywall and flooring (if necessary) 
• Start the drying process with air movers and dehumidifiers 
• Ensure rooms are completely dry and conduct a walk through with home/business owners, to guarantee customer satisfaction

WHO TO CALL:

At SERVPRO of East York, no job is too big or too small for our Team of certified and highly trained experts. If water damage occurs in your residential home or commercial property, call the professionals at SERVPRO of East York at 717-665-1270. It is important to call as soon as possible because water damage that has not been mitigated by professionals, can quickly become a breeding ground for mold or further damages.

Extract-ly What You Need

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East York's Production Manager knows exract-ly what this home needed!

Causes & Consequences of Water Damage 

Incidents that often cause water damage in your home or business are:

• Leaky or burst pipes
• Natural disasters
• Structural damage of the home.

Water damage in your home or business should be handled as soon as possible to avoid additional damage to more areas. If there is standing water, and the first thing you will want to do is extract! Failing to extract water and fixing the damages can lead to growth of bacteria and mold spores around the affected parts of your structure. This may also invite insects and pests into your home or place of business. Because it is important to act quickly, SERVPRO of East York is always Here to Help and assist you in regaining control of these pesky situations!

Water Extraction Procedure

It is necessary that all water is removed before we can properly mitigate and dry affected areas. Extraction is key because water must be removed, and the area must be completely dried before we are able to repair the damage and restore your belongings. When you're in a pinch call SERVPRO of East York; our water extractors go above and beyond typical extraction devices such as household wet/dry vacuums.

We're Here to Help!

For fast and effective services, contact SERVPRO of East York at (717)-665-1270. SERVPRO of East York is faster to any size disaster and is a 24/7 emergency service provider. At SERVPRO of East York, we are always Here to Help!

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Western Lancaster 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 - 717-665-1270

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 Western Lancaster 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 Western Lancaster

SERVPRO of Western Lancaster 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.

Six Signs Water Damage Is Ruining Your Foundation

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage in East York County Can Be Restored by SERVPRO

Water damage may be fairly simple to spot, especially if you are a hands-on homeowner, who fixes and repairs things as they crop up. The problem is that water damage to foundations is not an easy water damaging problem to identify.

Nevertheless, the key to minimizing the extent of the damage is always to spot it quickly and address it as soon as possible. How are you supposed to achieve this if you don’t know that there is water damage in the first place? This guide, provided by SERVPRO, to some of the most common symptoms of water damage within foundations will help you spot any problem areas.

Symptom One: Water Below Ground

If you are routinely dealing with standing water in the basement, you are probably getting a little stressed out. As a consolation, however, it does mean that you can be reasonably sure of a foundation problem. Standing water only accumulates and sits in a basement if drainage systems are not functioning properly.

Symptom Two: Overly Damp Soil

If you speculate that there could be an issue with moisture, take a look at the soil around the foundations of the property. If it is unusually wet (even after days without rain), there is a good chance that groundwater is seeping into the foundation.

Symptom Three: Water in the Crawlspace

Standing water or condensation and moisture building up within a crawlspace is a pretty good sign that something is wrong with the foundation, circulation of air, lack of adequate insulation, or burst pipe. If it is too damp in this area, the quality of the air in your house can decline, and it may give off a musty odor.

Symptom Four: Sagging and Bowing Floors

A lot of homeowners walk up and down uneven floors for years before they spot a problem. You can test the level of your own with nothing more than a small rubber ball. Unless you know of a reason the foundation is or could be unlevel and not caused by water damage, imbalances should be checked out immediately. They can indicate soil erosion due to water.

Symptom Five: Slimy Patches Outside

When the water from rains and storms is draining away from the property in a secure and efficient manner, it never spends enough time close to the building to have a lasting impact. On the other hand, if groundwater is pooling, you may be able to spot slimy and moldy patches on the outer walls of your home.

Symptom Six: Mal-functioning Doorframes or windows

This might sound like a surprising sign, but if your doorframes used to open and close correctly, but have recently started to stick, the problem could be moisture related. It may be a sign that the doorframes have begun to warp, from excessive water absorption.

Call SERVPRO of Eastern York County for any unwanted water damaging situations that may occur on your property. We are experts in water removal, cleanup, and water damage restoration. We will recondition your home "Like it never even happened."

We’re Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

As leaders in the water damage industry, SERVPRO of Eastern York County has advanced expertise and training, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We proudly serve the communities of York, Red Lion, Dover, Felton and more. Call us 24/7 for help at (717) 846-6100

Our Professionals providing expertise on TV

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County is a trusted leader in the restoration industry, and our highly trained technicians provide 24-hour emergency service. We’re dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster with the training, equipment, and experience to respond to your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24x7 support
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly trained professionals
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

CALL US at 717 - 846 - 6100

Sprinkler Malfunction in York County

2/6/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded classroom after a sprinkler malfunction.

A malfunction in the sprinkler system of your business could flood your building and result in thousands (or tens of thousands) of dollars in damages. Thankfully, this York County day care facility called in SERVPRO of East York and Western Lancaster Counties to save the day. With additional help from SERVPRO of Hershey, our expert production staff was able to extract all the water and begin the drying process to minimize business interruption.

When it comes to such losses, rapid response is crucial to remove the water and limit the amount of damage it can cause. If the water were left to sit idle, within a few hours the damage to the walls and flooring could’ve been irreversible and would’ve turned into a long construction project. However, through swift action, much of the flooring and walls were saved permitting the facility to reopen with only one business day of closure.

Pipe Bursts? Water damage? What you should know.

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let broken pipes leaving you hanging around.

According to Insure.com, water damage is among the most common causes for homeowners' insurance claims--and one of the biggest sources of confusion. If a flooding river inundates your home, your insurance is unlikely to cover the damage. But if the flood comes from within the home itself, the result of a burst pipe, you can breathe easier: Your policy may probably will cover the damage to your property.

In general, water damage from a burst pipe inside your home should be covered by a standard homeowners' insurance policy. If an outside pipe bursts and causes damage, that should be covered, too, though you must be able to demonstrate that the damage did indeed come from the burst pipe. If the insurer concludes that poor drainage--a non-covered maintenance problem--was the real culprit, your claim may be denied.

All You Need to Know About Flood Damage

8/3/2016 (Permalink)

There are different types of flooding that a customer needs to be aware of. A flash flood is common in any area and can happen due to inclement weather. A flood can damage a customer’s property but here at SERVPRO of West Lancaster County and East York Counties our goal is to prevent the damage from happening and restoring the destruction “Like it never even happened." There is flood insurance that a customer can purchase, whether you are renting a home, a business owner or homeowner. A customer can purchase flood insurance through the NFIP. There are communities that offer the NFIP that can reduce a customer’s cost of flood damage. You can also refer to your local insurance agent for questions regarding flood damage. 

Floods can be devastating to any home or business. Having the peace of mind that can come from flood insurance, will ease the burden, in the event you do have flood damage at your residence or place of business.

What Are The Benefits Of Water Damage Restoration Services?

2/24/2016 (Permalink)

Soaked Conference Room

Once a flood or fire damages an individual's home, it's important for them to attain speedy, efficient water damage restoration services. The restoration process is a multi-faceted one, involving a vast range of services including cleaning and various repairs. Moreover, it is important that this process begins as quickly as possible to ensure that your property isn't subjected to extensive damage. The best way to guarantee that your property is restored quickly and correctly is by obtaining professional water damage restoration services. Here are several reasons why you should take this course of action: 

Fast Restoration 

When you hire a team of professional water damage experts, they will complete your cleanup, repair, and restoration work with lightning speed. The contractors will be able to get the work done quickly due to their extensive experience in the restoration sector. Moreover, restoration firms will typically send multiple contractors to your property at one time. In so doing, the company specialists will be able to preclude your home from falling prey to secondary water damage. 

Mold And Mildew Growth Prevention 

In addition to ensuring the quick restoration of your property, water damage specialists are effective in reducing your susceptibility to a mold and mildew growth. They accomplish this objective by quickly removing excess water from the property. In the event that mold is already present on your property, the water damage experts will utilize industrial grade cleaners and disinfectants to eliminate the fungus with skill and speed. This work is immensely important because ongoing exposure to mold can adversely impact your health. 

Holistic Help 

Another reason it's a good idea to call a water damage restoration company in the wake of a disaster is that they can offer holistic services. Unfortunately, there is a broad range of property issues that can come into being when your property is subjected to water damage. Luckily, water damage experts can address and resolve them all. Some of the services contractors provide to accomplish this objective include vent cleaning, air duct cleaning, odor removal, smoke removal, deodorization, sanitation, and content restoration. 

Don't Delay: Call SERVPRO Today! 

If you're serious about restoring your property after water damage, SERVPRO is the company to call. Our IICRC-certified technicians offer a full range of restoration services while simultaneously providing each client with 24/7 emergency services. Call us now to learn more about what we can do for you!

Pipe Bursts ? What you should know ? Lancaster / York PA

1/29/2016 (Permalink)

Pipe Bursts ? What you should know ? Lancaster / York PA

Pipe Bursts ? What you should know ? Lancaster / York PA

Pipe Bursts ? Water damage What you should know ? York PA

1/4/2016 (Permalink)

According to Insure.com, water damage is among the most common causes for homeowners' insurance claims--and one of the biggest sources of confusion. If a flooding river inundates your home, your insurance is unlikely to cover the damage. But if the flood comes from within the home itself, the result of a burst pipe, you can breathe easier: Your policy may probably will cover the damage to your property.

In general, water damage from a burst pipe inside your home should be covered by a standard homeowners' insurance policy. If an outside pipe bursts and causes damage, that should be covered, too, though you must be able to demonstrate that the damage did indeed come from the burst pipe. If the insurer concludes that poor drainage--a non-covered maintenance problem--was the real culprit, your claim may be denied.