Recent Posts
How to Prevent and Fix Frozen Pipes
12/16/2024 (Permalink)
Winter can be harsh on your home’s plumbing, and frozen pipes are one of the most common issues faced during cold months. When water freezes inside pipes, it expands, potentially leading to cracks, leaks, or even bursts. Here’s a guide on how to prevent frozen pipes and what to do if you’re dealing with them.
Understanding the Risks of Frozen Pipes
When temperatures drop below freezing, water inside exposed or poorly insulated pipes can solidify. This not only blocks the flow of water but can also create immense pressure within the pipe, causing it to rupture. The repair costs for burst pipes can be significant, and water damage can disrupt your home for weeks.
Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Insulate Your Pipes Wrap pipes in foam insulation, especially those located in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces. Pipe insulation is affordable and easy to install.
- Seal Drafts Identify and seal cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and walls near pipes. This helps keep cold air out and maintains a stable temperature.
- Keep a Drip Let faucets trickle during freezing weather. A small flow of water can prevent pressure build-up and freezing.
- Open Cabinet Doors Allow warm air to circulate pipes under sinks by keeping cabinet doors open. This is particularly helpful in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Maintain a Consistent Temperature Avoid lowering your thermostat too much at night. Keeping your home warm reduces the risk of frozen pipes.
- Install Heat Tape Heat tape or cables can be applied directly to pipes, providing a regulated heat source during extreme cold.
Frozen pipes can cause significant inconvenience and damage, but with proper precautions, they are entirely preventable. By following these tips and staying vigilant during the winter months, you can protect your home and avoid costly repairs. If you do encounter frozen pipes, SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island can help ease the issue and clean up excess damage.
How Minor Water Leaks Can Lead to Major Damage
12/2/2024 (Permalink)
When we think about water damage in a home, images of burst pipes or flooded basements often come to mind. However, a smaller, seemingly insignificant leak can cause just as much damage over time. Here’s a closer look at how these small leaks can escalate, why they’re often overlooked, and how to catch and fix them before they wreak havoc.
- The Hidden Nature of Small Leaks
Small leaks are deceptive. They often drip from areas that are hard to spot: beneath sinks, behind walls, under floors, or within ceilings. These leaks rarely draw attention immediately, especially if they’re hidden out of sight. However, water’s pervasive nature means even a minor, slow drip can lead to significant issues.
- Understanding the Damage from Slow Leaks
Water damage from a small leak may be subtle at first, but it can still compromise the structural integrity of your home and create the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Here’s how:
Structural Weakening: Continuous moisture exposure can weaken wood, drywall, and insulation, leading to warping, rot, and even collapse over time.
Mold and Mildew Growth: Small leaks keep spaces damp, making them ideal environments for mold growth. Once mold sets in, it can spread quickly, causing damage and posing health risks.
Increasing Repair Costs: A small leak might seem like a minor issue, but the cumulative damage it causes can be far more expensive to fix than a quick repair early on.
- Common Sources of Small Leaks
Some of the most common places small leaks occur include:
Dripping Faucets and Showerheads: These are often ignored, but over time, they can waste gallons of water and cause buildup in sinks and tubs.
Toilet Leaks: Toilets can develop small leaks where the tank meets the bowl, or around the base, causing hidden water damage to the floor.
Appliances: Dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters are often sources of small, unnoticed leaks that worsen over time.
Pipes Beneath Sinks or Inside Walls: Slow leaks in these areas can soak floors, walls, or cabinetry, leading to mold and wood damage.
- Why Small Leaks Often Go Unnoticed
Since minor leaks rarely cause immediate issues, they’re often overlooked during routine maintenance. Additionally, small leaks may not trigger water alarms, and they often don't show a significant spike in your water bill until the damage is severe.
- Prevention and Early Detection Tips
Preventing and detecting leaks before they cause extensive damage is key. Here’s how to stay ahead:
Inspect Regularly: Check under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances regularly for signs of moisture or pooling water.
Monitor Water Pressure: High water pressure puts stress on pipes and joints, increasing the risk of leaks.
Install Water Alarms and Smart Leak Detectors: These devices can alert you to even minor leaks and shut off the water supply if necessary.
Address Minor Issues Immediately: Fixing a drip or slow leak early can save you from costly repairs down the line.
- When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, locating the source of a leak is challenging. If you notice unexplained damp spots, a musty odor, or signs of water damage but can’t find the source, it’s time to call SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island. A quick inspection could save you from dealing with severe structural repairs and health issues.
What to Do If Your Business Floods
11/3/2024 (Permalink)
When flooding strikes your business, it can be devastating both financially and operationally. A flooded space can halt operations, damage valuable equipment, and create hazardous conditions. Knowing how to respond quickly and effectively can make a big difference in minimizing damage and recovering swiftly. Here’s what you need to do if your business is hit by flooding.
- Ensure Safety First
Safety should be your top priority. If flooding has created standing water or has impacted the electrical systems in your building, it’s crucial to evacuate the premises immediately and keep everyone safe. Turn off the electricity and gas supply to prevent electrical hazards. Do not allow anyone to re-enter the premises until a professional has confirmed it’s safe.
- Contact Professional Restoration Services
Flood cleanup requires specialized equipment and expertise. Contact a professional water damage restoration company to handle water extraction, drying, and decontamination. They can respond quickly to mitigate the damage and prevent mold, bacteria, and other hazards from developing.
- Salvage What You Can
If safe and feasible, remove any undamaged or salvageable items from the flooded areas. Furniture, electronics, documents, and inventory can sometimes be saved if removed quickly enough. Place items in a dry, safe area, and be mindful of handling electrical equipment that may have been exposed to water.
- Begin Water Extraction and Drying
Professional restoration services will take the lead on this, but if they haven’t yet arrived and it’s safe to begin, you can start removing as much water as possible. Use mops, buckets, and, if available, wet/dry vacuums. Open doors and windows to improve ventilation and use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process. Drying should continue until moisture levels are back to normal to prevent mold growth.
- Sanitize the Affected Areas
Floodwater often contains contaminants, bacteria, or chemicals that pose health risks. All affected areas should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before reopening. We offer professional sanitization services to eliminate any residual risks and ensure a safe environment for you and your employees.
Flooding can be overwhelming, but taking these steps can help you respond quickly, minimize damage, and get back to business as soon as possible. From prioritizing safety and documenting damage to working with SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island, each step plays a crucial role in protecting your business.
Common Causes of Water Damage in Basements
9/12/2024 (Permalink)
water damage in the basement
Water damage in your basement can be a homeowner's nightmare. Whether caused by heavy rains, groundwater seepage, or plumbing leaks, water intrusion can lead to costly repairs, structural damage, and long-term issues like mold growth.
Common Causes of Water Damage in Basements
Poor Drainage
One of the most common culprits of basement water damage is poor drainage around the foundation. If the soil around your home doesn't drain properly, water can pool and seep into your basement walls.
Foundation Cracks
Over time, your foundation can develop cracks due to natural settling or shifting. Even small cracks can allow water to infiltrate, leading to significant moisture issues in your basement.
Sump Pump Failure
A sump pump is essential in homes prone to flooding or heavy rain. If your sump pump fails due to mechanical issues or a power outage, your basement may quickly flood, resulting in water damage.
Gutter Problems
Clogged or improperly installed gutters can cause rainwater to spill over the sides and accumulate near your foundation. This water can seep into your basement and cause damage over time.
Leaky Windows and Doors
Basement windows and doors that are improperly sealed or damaged can allow water to enter during storms or heavy rain. Even condensation buildup can cause moisture problems in the long run.
Water damage in the basement can lead to serious problems if not addressed promptly.
When water damage hits, don’t wait, SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island will arrive and be ready to start the process of any water damage emergency.
If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (401) 949-9955
- We are fast to any size of the disaster
We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and are always ready for water damage or water damage emergencies.
- We are water damage, restoration specialists
Our teams have advanced training and expertise.
- We use advanced drying equipment.
Common Causes of Household Fires
9/12/2024 (Permalink)
Household fires are a serious concern for homeowners, and they can happen when you least expect them. While cooking, or an unnoticed faulty wire can lead to devastating consequences. In this blog post, we'll explore the most common causes of household fires and the risks they pose.
1. Cooking Fires
Cooking is the leading cause of house fires, accounting for nearly half of all residential fires. Grease fires, unattended pots, or overheated appliances can quickly escalate into a blaze.
2. Electrical Fires
Electrical fires can be caused by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or malfunctioning appliances. These types of fires often occur behind walls or in attics, making them difficult to detect until it’s too late.
3. Heating Equipment Fires
Space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves are common sources of household fires, especially during the colder months. Improper use or maintenance of these heating sources can lead to dangerous fires.
4. Smoking Materials
Careless smoking is a significant cause of household fires, particularly when cigarettes are not properly extinguished or are smoked in bed.
5. Candle Fires
Candles add ambiance to a home, but they can also be a fire hazard if left unattended or placed near flammable objects.
6. Barbecue and Outdoor Fire Hazards
Grills and outdoor fire pits are great for entertainment, but they can pose serious fire risks if not handled correctly.
Household fires can happen unexpectedly, but many are preventable with proper precautions and awareness.
When a fire happens, SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island will arrive and are ready to start the process of any fire and soot damage emergency.
If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (401) 949-9955
- We are fast to any size disaster
We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and is always ready for fire damage or soot damage emergencies.
- We are fire damage restoration specialists
Our teams have advanced training and expertise.
The Different Types of Storm Damage That Can Affect Your Home
9/12/2024 (Permalink)
Storms are a force of nature that can strike at any time, and they often leave behind significant damage to homes and properties. Whether it’s a hurricane, blizzard, or thunderstorm, understanding the types of storm damage that can affect your house is crucial to protecting your investment and ensuring the safety of your family.
1. Wind Damage
High winds, especially those from hurricanes, tornadoes, or severe thunderstorms, can cause significant structural damage to homes. Wind gusts can range from mild to extremely destructive, depending on the storm's intensity.
2. Flooding and Water Damage
Flooding is a common result of storms, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall, storm surges, or flash floods. Water damage can have long-lasting effects on your home, from structural damage to mold growth.
3. Hail Damage
While Hailstorms are not as common in Rhode Island, they still can cause severe damage to your home, particularly your roof, windows, and exterior surfaces. Hailstones can range in size from small pellets to large, golf-ball-sized chunks, and the damage they cause can be costly to repair.
4. Lightning Damage
While less common, lightning strikes can cause serious damage to homes. Lightning can strike trees, power lines, or even your home directly, leading to electrical damage, fires, and structural issues.
5. Snow and Ice Damage
Winter storms can cause significant damage to homes, especially in areas prone to heavy snowfalls and ice buildup. Ice can accumulate on roofs, trees, and power lines, leading to damage from excess weight and freezing temperatures.
While you can’t control the weather, you can take steps to protect your home from the most common types of storm damage.
If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (401) 949-9955
- We are fast to any size disaster
We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and are always ready for storm damage emergencies.
- We are storm damage restoration specialists
Our teams have advanced training and expertise.
Use SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island for water damage.
8/22/2023 (Permalink)
When water damage hits your home or business, don’t wait to get it fixed. Even just a small water damage can lead to a larger one in the future. It is best to call right away to get it fixed, to ensure the damage won’t create more problems.
If you decide to wait, water damage can cause you issues for more than a week. These problems include damage to the walls, floors, upholstery, and other belongings. Sooner or later the walls will swell, metal surfaces tarnish and furniture will begin to warp.
Enough water damage will create moisture in the air, a perfect hotspot for mold to start developing and later growing and spreading around the place.
When water damage hits, don’t wait, SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island and will arrive and are ready to start the process of any water damage emergency.
If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (401) 949-9955
- We are fast to any size of the disaster
We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and are always ready for water damage or water damage emergencies.
- We are water damage, restoration specialists
Our teams have advanced training and expertise.
- We use advanced drying equipment.
What should you do if your business floods.
8/22/2023 (Permalink)
Has flooding hit your business after a storm? Storm flooding is different from plain water damage as it can have more bacteria in the water, and it is best to get your loss restored quickly.
If you get hit with flooding here are some tips to do after flooding:
- Remove excess water
- Wipe excess water from furniture
- Gather loose items from the floors
- Call to get flooding damage cleaned and your business restored
When flooding hits, don’t wait, SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island will arrive and are ready to start the process of any flooding damage emergency.
If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (401) 949-9955
- We are fast to any size disaster
We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and are always ready for water damage or water damage emergencies.
- We are water damage restoration specialists
Our teams have advanced training and expertise.
- We use advanced drying equipment.
How to look for signs you have mold in your RI home.
8/22/2023 (Permalink)
If your Rhode Island home recently had water damage, and you didn’t have your water damage issue fixed, it only takes 24 to 48 hours for mold to germinate and grow. When mold is formed it will not only affect your home but also your health. Though you may be wondering how you can tell if you have mold on your walls, ceiling, floor, or wood. Here are a few ways you can figure out if you have mold in your home:
- Smelling a mold odor
- Condensation
moisture build-up will be on glass, windows, or pipes. - Health symptoms
some types of mold are toxic and cause more serious symptoms - Spotting and fur on walls
- Old water damage/leakage
When to call for mold removal in RI
If mold has been discovered in your home, call your local SERVPRO. At SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island, you can view our website for mold removal services
If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (401) 949-9955
- We are fast to any size disaster
- We are water damage restoration specialists
- We use advanced drying equipment.
Preventing storm damage in your Rhode Island home
8/29/2022 (Permalink)
Storm damage can be a huge hassle, and no one wants to receive storm damage, especially when it is least expected. Although you can get damaged at any time, there are natural ways you can do to prevent storm damage in your home. Here are some simple tips and tricks to ensure less damage.
- Inspect your roof and chimney.
The roof is the most important part of your house. It is important to check out your roof to make sure you don’t have any damaged, loose, or missing shingles or tiles. Another component on the roof is the chimney. The chimney receives more damage than the roof because it stands taller. Making sure your chimney has no cracks or broken masonry work will help prevent possible leakage.
- Maintain trees and vegetation.
Having a beautiful lawn with bushes and trees are lovely, but keep in mind that plants and trees can cause damage to your house if not maintained. Make sure to minimize vegetation near utility pipes and make sure roots don’t damage your pipes and water line.
- Clean gutters and downspouts.
Gutters will help collect all the water from your roof. Over time, your gutters will fill up with leaves, seeds, and other debris causing a blockage. It is important to clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure the water can flow easily.
- Remember to check your attic.
Most homeowners don’t go into the attic often and signs of water in the attic are not often found early before the damage is too late. Water damage in the attic can be an environment for mold to grow.
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