Causes, Categories, and Classes of Water Damage

 

Water damage restoration is something that many of us may need without realizing it. The common mistake here is to assume that you don’t need water damage restoration in Georgia until things get dramatic – until you have water bursting forth from a pipe or flood water slowly rising in your home.

In these cases, you might be tempted to panic and to try and call a water damage restoration company just as soon as you’ve managed to stop the influx of water and the other causes of water damage.

Though, this is commonly not what water damage will look like. More often, you’ll find that water damage takes the form of a more gradual deterioration caused by a leak or some kind of standing water. It might cause sanitation issues, it’s not very energy-efficient, and it can lead to mold, structural issues, and all manner of other problems and other causes of water damage.

Professional Water Damage Restoration Company 

When water is on the move, time is critical. ServiceMaster of Cobb recognizes the shock and emotional disruption that most people suffer in these situations. Our goal is to help homeowners & business owners overcome their feelings of helplessness by clarifying what is happening, explaining our process, and giving unlimited support.

We offer water damage restoration services, such as: 

• Drying and Dehumidification 
• Document Restoration 
• Sewer Backup
• Water Damage Restoration and Repair 
  
  

What Are The Common Causes Of Water Damage? 

• Pipes in the loft – broken or frozen;
• Blocked guttering;
• Storage tanks – leaky or over-flowing;
• Badly fitted bathroom tiles;
• Broken or poor-fitting shower screens and curtains;
• Shower trays – broken or badly fitted;
• Baths – poorly plumbed in or unattended;
• Poorly maintained sealant around bath and shower;
• Poorly maintained or open chimneys;
• Flashing around chimney – damaged or poorly installed;
• Roof tiles – missing or broken;
• Poorly installed or broken windows;
• Defrosted fridges and ice machines;
• Damp proof course – failed or missing;
• Insufficient or low-lying air bricks;
• Damp proof course – bridged;
• Old corroded pipework;
• DIY nailing into pipes;
• Leaking radiators;
• Corroded ball valves in toilet cisterns;
• Blocked sewers and sewage backflow;
• Unattended or blocked sinks;
• Appliances – faulty or corroded;
• Storm drain overflow;
• Drainage – poor or insufficient (around foundations);
• External flooding;
• Insufficient threshold on external doors;
• Poorly maintained boilers;
• Hot water cylinders – poorly maintained;
• Broken aquariums.
  
  

Dangers Of Not Treating The Source Of  Water Damage 

It is important that property owners are able to pick out possible water damage as early as possible and to find experienced professionals to accurately find the source of the water damage if it isn’t obvious.

There are health risks linked to water damage that one should be aware of. A common health risk is seen (or unseen) mold. A build-up of this can cause symptoms such as: 

• Coughing
• Fatigue 
• Skin rashes
  
  

Categories and Classes of  Water Damage

Categories of Water Damage

Assessing the severity of the damage is important for determining what is needed to start water damage repair and water removal.

• Category 1 
  • Clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. Possible causes of this type of damage include broken appliances or sink overflows.
• Category 2 
  • Gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness if ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage may cause Category 2 water damage.
• Category 3 
  • Black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

Classes of Water Damage

The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options.

• Class 1 
  • The least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation.
• Class 2 
  • It has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves Class 2 damage.
• Class 3 
  • It has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture.
• Class 4 
  • It requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete.

ServiceMaster of Cobb and Water Damage Categories

Our team at ServiceMaster of Cobb is certified by the IICRC to handle your water damage regardless of its category. Our goal is not just to dry the damage; it’s to make sure that you can occupy an environment without facing ill health effects. If you have water damage, call ServiceMaster of Cobb today!

Preparing For Hurricane Season: Complete Guide

 

Hurricane season has officially kicked off and here in the United States, we have already seen our first tropical storm of the year. Severe weather can be devastating in terms of property damage and loss of personal items – not to mention the possibility of personal tragedies. 

Storm Damage Restoration Company In Georgia 

After a devastating storm or hurricane, contact  ServiceMaster of Cobb as soon as possible to visit your property for storm damage restoration and reconstruction service to  the sections of your home that were severely damaged by heavy winds. Our job is to repair everything that has damage: returning your home to its pre-disaster condition. 

It is important to get repairs done immediately in order to avoid any additional complications to your already difficult situation. 

• ServiceMaster of Cobb can repair any damage caused by storms. 
• We have many years of experience in storm damage repair and can quickly and efficiently repair your property after a devastating storm. 
• We have a reputation for expert craftsmanship, affordable rates, and reliable service
  
  

We offer: 

• Water Damage Restoration 
• Mold Remediation 
• Storm Damage Repair  and Restoration 
• Reconstruction 
  
  
  

To help you prevent storm damage in Georgia, here are some tips and resources you can use to keep your home safe during the hurricane season.

Preparing For Hurricane Season 

The best time to prepare for a hurricane is long before one ever forms in the ocean. Once hurricane season rolls around, you should begin preparations to secure your home and make sure you have enough supplies on hand to “weather the storm”. 

• When Is Hurricane Season? 
  • Hurricane season officially begins June 1st and ends November 30th. Tropical storms can, however, arrive before and after these dates, but the majority of hurricanes and tropical storms in this region occur during this time period.
    
    

Difference Among a Tropical Depression, a Tropical Storm, and a Hurricane 

Knowing the difference between the three is an important step to properly preparing for one of these violent storms. Severe tropical weather here in the United States comes in three main varieties: 

• Tropical Depressions 
  • The beginning stage to any tropical threat 
  • It may also be called: 
    • tropical system
    • tropical disturbance
    • tropical wave
    • tropical activity. 
  • A weather formation that may or may not turn into a tropical storm or hurricane, depending upon certain conditions.
  • A result of low pressure and thunderstorms that create a circular wind pattern
  • The maximum wind speed for this type of weather pattern is 39mph.
• Tropical Storms
  • If the wind remains at 39mph or higher (up to 73mph), then the tropical depression is upgraded to a tropical storm and it officially receives a name.
• Hurricanes 
  • If a tropical storm passes 74mph or greater, it is considered a hurricane and will be placed into a category ranging from 1-5, with 5 being the most powerful. 
  • Wind speed for each category can be defined as below:
    • Category 1 Hurricane: 74-95mph
    • Category 2 Hurricane: 96-110mph
    • Category 3 Hurricane: 111-130mph
    • Category 4 Hurricane: 131-155mph
    • Category 5 Hurricane: Greater than 156mph
      
      

How To Prepare For A Hurricane 

Even though weather forecast and storm predictions improve each year tropical storms and hurricanes are still unpredictable and the property damage they can leave in their wake is often greater than analysts predict. Because of this, it is important to start preparing for a hurricane at the beginning of the hurricane season – if not before.

• Have a map of all evacuation routes in your area. 
  • Make sure you drive the route at the start of the hurricane season and that your family members know how to reach them as well.
• Inspect your home or have a professional inspect it 
  • Check for: 
    • loose roof tiles, 
    • structural damage, 
    • poor seals around windows 
    • Doors
  • Install storm shutters and impact windows. 
    • Studies show that they greatly reduce storm and water damage in the event of a hurricane.
• Stock up on non-perishable supplies. 
  • We recommend a minimum of three days worth of non-perishable food for each family member, including any pets. Be sure to pack snacks and comfort food as well, especially if you have young children.
    • flashlights 
    • hand-cranked radio
    • Purchasing additional cell phone batteries 
    • Canned food
    • can openers 
    • powdered milk
    • plenty of water 
• Stock up Medications 
  • Over the counter medication, such as: 
  • cold medicine
  • headache medicine
  • pain relievers 
  • A first-aid kit 
• Secure any outside objects or bring them inside. 
  • This includes things like: 
    • lawn chairs 
    • tables
    • pool umbrellas 
    • outdoor canopies
• Fill up your vehicles with gas 
• Ready.gov has a great list for a basic disaster supplies kit that every homeowner should follow.
  
  

What Is A  Hurricane Warning and A Hurricane Watch? 

Hurricane Watch

• Basically, it tells you that a hurricane making landfall in your area is probable or likely and that you should prepare for that eventuality. 
• Issued 48 hours prior to the anticipated onset of tropical storm strength winds.
  
  

Hurricane Warning

• It means that severe weather is imminent.
• If a warning has been issued, your area is either already feeling the effects of a hurricane, or is about to. 
• It issued 36 hours before the anticipated onset of tropical force winds.
  
  

What To Do During A Hurricane? 

If you have not been ordered to evacuate and you feel safe in your home, once a hurricane or tropical storm hits, you should always: 

• Stay inside your home, as long as the structural integrity of your home is okay. 
• Find a secure room in your home and gather your family there. 
• Keep clear of any windows, as debris could shatter them and enter your home. 
• Keep any essential tools nearby, as well as a first-aid kit and a radio to listen to weather updates.
  
  

What To In the Aftermath Of A Hurricane?

• Make sure the local news has given the okay to venture outside.
• Don’t be fooled by the eye of the hurricane. 
• Never venture out when the eye of the hurricane is passing over, as you can quickly get caught in the storm once it picks back up again.
• Once you are certain it is safe to venture outdoors, check the area for any downed power lines. If you find them: 
  • Report them to the local power company and steer clear of them. 
  • Avoid puddles and standing water, as they can house hidden dangers and safety hazards.
• Inspect your home for any structural damage. 
  • Damaged walls, collapsing roofs, and floods are particularly dangerous, and if you encounter them, you will want to evacuate the premises immediately. 
• Document any damage to your phone or a camera. 
  • Hurricanes often result in water damage and flood damage and may result in mold and mildew, as well as fire damage.
• Once you have taken note of any damage and your family is safe and secure, your next step should be to call your insurance company and a storm damage restoration company, such as the catastrophe remediation professionals at ServiceMaster of Cobb. Not only can they help repair your property and its contents, but they can also help guide you through the insurance claims process and develop a safety plan for any future catastrophic events.
  
  

 

Experts In Hurricane, Tropical Storm, and Tornado Storm Damage and  Recovery 

 Call ServiceMaster of Cobb.

• Cartersville, GA 770-882-2723
• Chattanooga, TN 423-954-7154
• Ormond Beach, FL 386-277-1189
  
  

Hurricane Preparation Tips and Resources 

Are you looking for more hurricane preparation tips and resources? If so, you may find the links below useful.

• Redcross.org | Hurricane Preparedness Resources
• Ready.gov | Information on Hurricane Safety
• NHCH | National Hurricane Center Hurricane Preparation Guide
• CDC | Emergency Preparedness for Tropical Storms and Hurricanes
• Disaster.com | The Essentials of Hurricane Preparedness
• Disaster.com | Forum for Hurricane Survivors and Advice
• Fema.gov | Disaster Survivor Assistance Page
  

Causes Of Water Damage In Georgia

Many factors cause water damage. It occurs whenever water begins to collect someplace it shouldn’t, whether that be your kitchen floor, walls, the corner of your basement, or any areas in your home. No matter what the reason may be, you need to act fast! You should call professionals for water damage mitigation in East Ridge to help you find the root cause and help to stop the spread before further damage is done.

Read on to learn what the top causes of water damage are in most homes.

LEAKING PIPES

Many factors could cause the pipes in your building to become damaged or even burst. A few ways to tell if you have water damage due to pipe issues is if you notice water stains on your building’s walls, floors, or ceilings, cracked or loose tiles, or if you notice a moldy or stuffy smell in the area. On some occasions, you can also hear a hissing sound in the areas where your pipes are. If you notice these, then you must call professionals for water damage mitigation in Cartersville.

PLUMBING PROBLEMS

Your plumbing system is susceptible to stoppages, clogs, and damages. If a crack develops, this will most likely lead to potential water damage. Always observe and be aware of how your plumbing performs. If you notice that the drain isn’t working, or probably you notice signs of moisture, blue stains, rusting, cracking, and bulging, then it’s time to call water damage experts in East Ridge. You shouldn’t wait for this to happen though. You must have a periodic check from your plumbers to make sure that your plumbing system won’t encounter enormous problems in the future.

BASEMENT OR ATTIC CONCERNS

Dark places in your home have the potential to have moisture build-up and allow mold to grow freely. Any moisture making its way through your home’s concrete foundation can lead to leaks in your basement. And if you have an air leak between your attic and your home, you may be accumulating moisture on the underside of the roof. This goes unnoticeable until it becomes a massive problem.

BROKEN HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES

Our appliances at home will eventually reach its end of life. So, when this happens, we have to immediately check rusting and other leakages. This can cause water damage. Examples of appliances to watch out for are washing machines or your tanks.

HVACS

Maintaining a clean HVAC system is essential for keeping your commercial and residential premises safe and comfortable for everyone. Over time, HVAC ducts can begin to wear out or get damaged, which will lead to water fissure. In order to avoid these issues or spot them early, your HVAC systems should be regularly cleaned and maintained by a professional. This can decrease the probability of having worse problems in the future.

WEATHER AND NATURAL DISASTERS

Flash floods, hurricanes, thunderstorms, and other severe weather can cause significant damage to your property, including water damage. While you can’t prevent these natural disasters from happening, there are some precautionary steps you can take to make sure your property is in good shape and is as prepared as possible for these events. However, if your safety is questionable, you must follow the evacuation procedure that is set by your local authorities.

If you are experiencing water damage in your property, always be ready for a water damage reconstruction in East Ridge. The span of time spent in waiting or doing nothing about it could lead to even bigger problems. You have to be ready all the time.

ServiceMaster of Cobb is always ready to serve you! That’s why we’re your best water damage company in East Ridge and Cartersville. Reach us at these numbers for your water damage restoration needs!