Recent Storm Damage Posts

Storm Season Is Upon Us

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

Lightening Storm Lightening storm

In the water, fire, and clean up restoration industry we know that storm events can be a big ordeal, and cause fear amongst our community. A lot of times when the storm topic is brought up many think of tornadoes, heavy rainstorms and huge snow storms. Most of the time these events can be forecasted ahead of time allowing for us to prepare trucks, stage equipment and map deployment routes so that we can be there for you in an instant.

What about the unpredictable events? Living in the Northwest Ohio this can be an all too common occurrence. Spring showers can lead to astronomical rain totals causing basement and lower-level living quarters to flood. Those hot summer days can pop up a storm out of nowhere with severe lighting, blowing rain along with damaging tree limbs crashing down, tornadoes, trees toppling straight out of the ground, and roofs being blown off instantly wreaking havoc on homes and businesses in our area. Before you know it, winter is creeping upon us. Warm temperatures begin to exit, and the cold air starts coming in. Heavy snow falls and cold temperatures can lead to many in our region dealing with freezing pipes that can have a devastating effect on your structure.

Here at SERVPRO Of Bowling Green/West Lucas County we are always prepared to help you twenty-four hours a day seven days a week in case an emergency arises. We also keep lines of communication open with our neighboring franchises in case of mass amounts of damage to our community to help those in need of assistance. 

To our amazing community, thank you for trusting SERVPRO Of Bowling Green/West Lucas County in your time of need!

How can frozen pipes affect your Home?

10/30/2021 (Permalink)

frozen pipe that is bursting FROZEN PIPE THAT IS BURSTING!

When frozen pipes are flooding a home, SERVPRO of Bowling Green/W. Lucas County is available to respond quickly to disaster and return affected properties to a preloss state. Certified Restoration Technicians undergo training in emergency water cleanup situations per Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards.

Burst and frozen pipes flooding in neighborhoods can affect more than just one property. In multi-family residences, burst pipes in an upstairs unit can cause ceiling leaks and other disasters below.

SERVPRO addresses flooding by:

  • Creating weep holes for drainage in ceilings
  • Disposing of water in a treated sewer
  • Making flood cuts to remove unsalvageable portions of drywall
  • Drying wall and ceiling cavities
  • Restoring and sanitizing ventilation with EPA-registered anti-microbial products.

SERVPRO of Bowling Green/W. Lucas County is here for your needs! Call the professionals at 419-867-8678 to help with your home and make it “Like it never even happened.”

How Do I Maintain my Sump Pump?

10/30/2021 (Permalink)

description of a sump pump HOW A SUMP PUMP WORKS

Sump Pump 101

Regardless of whether you live in an area that is susceptible to floods, it is beneficial to consider having a sump pump in your home. An exceptionally heavy rainstorm, rapidly melting snow, or a broken pipe could all be the cause of a flood in your basement that can more easily be managed with the proper equipment. Once you have your pump, there are several tasks that you should do regularly to keep it properly maintained.

Clear Obstructions

The discharge pipe and vent hole, pit, and intake screen are all points that are vulnerable to obstructions. Proper pump maintenance means checking for dirt and debris that could be preventing proper drainage, eliminating anything that is blocking the screen, and clearing things that prevent the float component from functioning. You can conduct periodic tests by pouring water into the basin. The pump should activate and drain the water. Regular maintenance of your sump pump ensures that it is ready for an emergency.

Maintain a Safe Connection

Pumps are plugged into an electrical source, so make sure that yours is plugged into the correct type of outlet (ground fault circuit interrupter or GFCI). You should also check the cord especially if you have any history of rodents in your basement that could damage the cord.

Replace Backup Power

Your pump probably has a backup power source. Test the battery at least annually and replace it every couple of years. The backup power source is your last line of defense in the face of a flood, so if it's been sitting unused for a lot of years, there's a good chance it won't work when you need it to. If that happens and your basement does flood, call an emergency mitigation company like SERVPRO of Bowling Green/W. Lucas County evaluate for safety before you start to clean up.


A sump pump will always be at the ready to protect your home from water damage if it is maintained properly. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bowling Green/W. Lucas County at 419-867-8678 to help in case an emergency does happen!

Flooding from Storms and how it affects your Home?

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

house in a flood zone House engulfed in a flood zone

How can flooding affect the value of your home?

There is no one simple answer to this question as the effect of flooding on house prices varies by the geographical area and the extent of the damage the flood caused. There is undoubtedly a risk of house prices dropping following a water surge in a specific area. Knowing that a property is in a flood area can make a difference in the amount a buyer is willing to pay.

SERVPRO of Bowling Green/W. Lucas County whenever possible and ask for assistance for rapid flood removal and cleanup if necessary. Swift action might affect your home's value, but it will most certainly positively impact your state of mind and ability to get back to your life.

What Are Some Things You Can Do to Protect Your Home from Flooding?

You cannot prevent a flood from reaching your home, but there are some things you can do to protect your house:

  • Add seals and barriers on doors and windows to prevent water seeping in
  • Add a sump pump system to drain water away from your house
  • Consider putting valves on drainage lines and toilets so that sewage cannot back up into your property when a flood occurs
  • Landscape your garden so that water flows down and away from your home

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bowling Green/W. Lucas County to help with the cleanup that a flood can do to your home!

WINTER WEATHER TIPS

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

SNOWPLOW DURING SNOW STORM Winter weather that affects your home

HELPFUL Tips for Being Prepared:

  • Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it off.
  • If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
  • Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
  • Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of problems too.
  • Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for run-through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.

PREPARE YOUR BUSINESS: 

  • Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, snow and ice can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
  • Inspect walkways, and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potentials.
  • Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas.
  • Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
  • Ask SERVPRO of Bowling Green/W. Lucas County about starting a Disaster Recovery Plan for your business.

ARE THUNDERSTORMS DANGEROUS?

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

LIGHTNING OVER A CITY THUNDERSTORMS AFFECTING THE CITY

WHEN IS A THUNDERSTORM DANGEROUS?

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCES:

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property. 

*Every year people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms despite advance warning. While some did not hear the warning, others heard the warning and did not pay attention to it.

*The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives.

What to look for with Roof Damage

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

house with roof damage High winds caused this roof damage

Three Types of Roof Damage

Whether you live on a beach with hurricanes or on a mountain with heavy winter snowstorms, your home can be at risk of sustaining wind damage because the roof is one of the most common places for it to happen, it is helpful to know how to quickly respond to problems. Sometimes, you will need to call a storm damage & remediation expert for help, but other times, you can fix things yourself. Here are three tips for recognizing the type of roof damage you are dealing with:

  1. Check the Flashing
    It is common for high winds to damage roof flashing. This is the material that protects the seams of roof fixtures such as your chimney. While you are checking the flashing, do not forget about the surrounding sealant. If it is old or cracked, you will need to replace it. Fortunately, this is an inexpensive kind of roof repair.
  2. Look for Damaged Parts
    A roof has several parts including vent boots, shingles and slits. Take time to carefully examine all of them. Damaged vent boots can lead to leaks, and it is easy for shingles to break and for slits to corrode. If any of this kind of roof damage occurs, you will need to buy replacement materials. This sort of roof repair can be more costly than flashing or sealant fixes, but it probably still will not break the bank.
  3. Check for Holes
    A puncture is one of the most expensive types of roof repairs you will encounter. If you notice a hole in your roof, moving quickly can save you money by reducing the amount of additional damage that may occur. Holes are not the kind of repair you want to make yourself though. Even if it can be costly, is better to leave this job to professionals.
    If high winds damage your roof, it can be helpful to know what kind of roof repair you will need to make. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may be able to solve the problem yourself, or you made need professional assistance. Either way, acting quickly can reduce problems.

 Call the experts at SERVPRO of Bowling Green/W. Lucas County in your time of need!

How do storms damage your home?

10/23/2021 (Permalink)

How do storms damage your home?

Our team @ SERVPRO of Bowling Green/W. Lucas County is prepared for the storms that will hit our surrounding areas. There is potential for severe weather and with this comes overwhelming precipitation, wind speeds, and debris that can expose weak points in construction like gutters and downspouts. You may find it necessary to clean up water damage in your home. Fortunately, there are many professionals who can help. Dealing with repairs and insurance companies after severe weather hits your property can be difficult. Homeowners can use the following tips to help tackle the storm damage caused by hard rains, flooding, or storm-related issues.

Here are a few helpful storm tips you may wish to know before you begin the cleanup process: 

  1. Follow Safety Procedures - It's important to follow safety procedures before you proceed with storm cleanup. For example, turn off any electricity before entering a flooded area, and only use properly rated equipment when removing water. 
  2. Contact Your Insurance - You may also wish to contact your insurance about the damage to your property. Repairs can begin before your agent arrives on the scene, but you may find your insurance company has a couple of recommendations for local storm damage restoration companies like us that you can work with and help you out in your time of need.
  3. Contact a Professional Quickly - Another among many commonly recommended storm tips, is to contact a professional for any repairs that need to be made. This will help ensure that the restoration is conducted properly, and in some cases can help your insurance claim as well.
  4. Wear Safety Gear - It's also important to wear the proper safety gear when entering the space. This may include work gloves, a face mask, clothing that covers the skin, proper shoes, and depending on the damage type a work helmet.
  5. Cover Over Damaged Areas - Another step many professionals recommend is to cover over any damages until repairs can be made. This will help prevent further damage and help keep animals out of your home. Remember to follow these helpful storm tips when restoring your home. Always follow safety procedures such as turning off any electricity and wearing the proper safety equipment. It's also wise to contact a professional to perform any repairs, as well as your insurance company for any recommendations they may have. You should also cover over any damaged space until the repairs can begin in the area. 

. In the event of damage from this storm, we have the resources to put your home or business back together, “Like it never even happened.”

Please call SERVPRO of Bowling Green/W. Lucas County @ 419-867-8678.

Storm Safety and Steps to Take !

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Sign saying "Are You Ready?" Storm Safety and Steps to Take!

Storm Safety

In 2017 we had no shortage of severe weather hit around the globe. We have seen major Hurricanes such , Harvey, Irma, Jose, and Maria. The Atlantic alone has had 17 Named storms so far in 2017!

On top of the major named storms we have had sever thunderstorms, heavy rains and we are just barely into the winter season!

So what steps should you do after the storm is gone and you are left with damage to your home?

There are steps that you should be aware of, steps to make the process smother and less Complicated.

1. Take the proper safety precautions! If your property is heavily damaged contact a reputable restoration company such as SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County to secure your property.

2. Contact your insurance company.

3.  Photograph damage, if it safe for you to do so. This is important to be sure you have an accurate record to give to your insurance company.

4. If the damage is from a storm such as a hurricane, look into Federal Disaster Assistance.

The federal government may have declared the area affected by the storm as a disaster area that is eligible for low-cost loans to help restore your property to normal. You will be required to file documents to receive these loans.

When Storms or Floods hit Delta, SERVPRO is ready!

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Sign saying "Stormy Weather Ahead." When Storms or Floods hit Delta, SERVPRO is ready!

When Storms or Floods hit Delta, SERVPRO is ready!

SERVPRO of Bowling Green and W. Lucas County 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. But a fast response time also means SERVPRO can get you back to normal faster. 

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Delta, 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 SERVPRO of Bowling Green and W. Lucas County Today at 419.867.8678

3 QUICK TIPS TO HELP PREVENT LIGHTNING FIRE & DAMAGE

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

STORM DAMAGE IN MAUMEE, OHIO ! STORM DAMAGE IN MAUMEE, OHIO

3 QUICK TIPS TO HELP PREVENT LIGHTNING FIRE & DAMAGE ----->

SERVPRO of Bowling Green/West Lucas County has cleaned up our fair share of fire damage caused by lightning.

Lightning strikes the earth's surface about 100 times every second and it can reach temperatures 5 times hotter than the surface of the sun. About 10-20% of those strikes have the potential to cause a fire.

Thunderstorms and lightning strikes have been causing quite a bit of damage in the area. We are experts in fire damage cleanup, and we believe in safety first. Below we've provided 3 tips to help prevent fire damage caused by lighting.

1. Avoid using water during a thunderstorm. Taking showers, washing dishes, even washing your hands could put you and the structure you are occupying at danger. Water, especially water that contains minerals can be great for conducting electricity. Definitely do not go swimming. Lightning regularly strikes water and swimming during a thunderstorm is one of the most dangerous things you can do.  

2. In recent years the cost fire damage cleanup caused by lightning has gone up. This is mainly because the average household owns more electronic equipment. During a thunderstorm be sure to unplug things like computers and televisions. Also, do not use landline phones during a storm. A surge protector is also a good idea. They do not always protect against large direct lightning currents. But, the device does attempt to limit the voltage supplied to an electrical device by either blocking or by shorting to ground any unwanted voltages above a safe threshold. 

TIP: Check your homeowner's insurance policy. Not all policies cover electronic items lost or damaged during lightning and thunderstorms.

3. Invest in a professionally installed lightning protection system. Lightning rods create a network of low resistance paths for lightning currents  to travel. Using them can help you direct the lightening towards the ground and cause less damage to the building structure. 

FUN FACT:The Empire State Building is a lightning rod for it's surrounding area. It is struck by lightning an average of 23 times per year. For more information on lightning protection systems keep reading our blog!

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Bowling Green/West Lucas County has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster.

We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. "Like it never even happened." Contact us for more information.

When Storms or Floods hit West Lucas County, SERVPRO is ready!

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

When Storms or Floods hit West Lucas County, SERVPRO is ready! - Image of tree fallen onto roof Storm damage in a local area! Damages to one's home can be devastating!

When Storms or Floods hit West Lucas County, SERVPRO is ready!

SERVPRO of Bowling Green and W. Lucas County 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. But a fast response time also means SERVPRO can get you back to normal faster. 

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Delta, 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 SERVPRO of Bowling Green and W. Lucas County Today at 419.867.8678

Are you prepared for severe weather? Call SERVPRO for a free estimate!

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency Storm Kit - Essentials What do you have in your Storm Kit? Are you prepared?

Even though in B.G / West Lucas County we don't face hurricanes head-on we can see some effects of them in wind and rain. The tips that SERVPRO wants to provide can ensure you're prepared for any type of storm when power is lost. 

  1. Cash

    • In the aftermath of a storm, banks might not be open and ATMS might be shuttered. Make sure to go by the bank/ ATM before the storm! Places and shops may have a loss of power after the storm, which could prevent them from taking electronic payment.
  2. Games and/or Activities
    • No emergency kit would be complete, especially if you have children, without board games, puzzles, coloring books, and other activities. Handling the aftermath of a storm is already taxing, make it easier for your family and add activities in your Storm Kit!
  3. Utensils
    • This bullet point can be overlooked since you will mainly have canned food in your storm kit, you want to be able to eat it easily, so utensils are essential. 
  4. Sanitary Items
    • Make sure you have all the necessary supplies like: shampoo, toothpaste,  deodorant, toilet paper, and diapers. If stores are closed or completely wiped out, you will want to have these items.
  5. Sleeping Bag/Blankets
    • This one is more obvious than others. If you live in a colder climate make sure you have additional supplies.  Also, make sure you have extra socks and a pillow for each family member.
  6. Lighting
    • Flashlight! Make sure you have new, working batteries in each! If the power goes out you will want to have a source of light.
  7. First Aid Kit
    • You want to be able to treat minor injuries, so make sure to include: bandages, antibiotic ointments, burn ointments, and other supplies. If you take prescription medications on a daily basis, make sure you have enough in case you can't run to the drug store.
  8. Battery- Powered or Hand Cranked Radio

    • If there is a loss of power, recharging your devices will be difficult, so you will need something like a crank radio to get storms and news updates. 
  9. Food 
    • Canned vegetables and soup, boxed cereal, peanut butter, crackers, and other nonperishable food should be part of your kit. Experts say to store about 3 days worth of food 
  10. Water
    • The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends storing at least 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation purposes. Children and nursing mothers might need more.

What are the Best Practices For Preparing For Summer Storms?

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Damage from high winds in B.G / West Lucas County area! What are the Best Practices For Preparing For Summer Storms?

Best Practices For Preparing For Summer Storms

Every smart home or business owner knows to prepare for summer storms. You likely know that the lightning, high winds, and heavy rains that come with frequent summer storms can be damaging and dangerous. Proper summer storm preparation will keep you, your family, and your workforce safe, and can help to protect your property from the worst of the damage. With the proper preparation, even if you do experience storm damage, you will be able to recover more quickly, as well. We here at SERVPRO have some tips for you in preparing your home or business for summer storms. 

Response Plan. Develop a response plan to prepare your business for those summer storm events. When a storm hits, communicating with your employees should be first on your list; they will need to know how you will handle the situation. People need to know where you are and what the next step will be. Letting people know what dangers may be in the neighborhood, for example, such as downed trees or flooded roads can help save them from injury or disaster. 

Vulnerable People. If you are caring for older people, or if you have small children, communication with those who are nearest will be key for the safety of these most vulnerable family members. If you are handling a business, make sure you think about those that have physical challenges, or those who travel a long way to get to work, for example. 

Back to Work. The goal of your business response plan should be to get your operations back up and running normally as fast as possible so that you can avoid any associated loss.  Creating a contingency plan will help support your business during an extended period of recovery or reduced operations. If your physical location is destroyed by summer storm damage and your workforce is able to do their jobs from home, that will be a huge plus. Think through all the possible issues and have a plan in place that will allow you to conduct your business as close to normal as you can. 

Stay at Home. A home-focused contingency plan will allow for family members to have somewhere to go in the event that your home is not accessible. An area hotel or the home of a close friend may work well for everyone, but make sure you put this in place in advance of a summer storm.

These are just a few ideas that can help you with your summer storm preparations. What your home or business needs will depend on your particular and unique family or business situation, and planning ahead with these things in mind will go a long way towards keeping everyone safe and as damage free as possible. 


If you do experience a severe weather event, remember that we are always here to help. The SERVPRO team has years experience in handling storm damage, fire damage, and water damage from floods and other disastrous events. Call us today for help in preparing your home or business for summer storms.

Are damaging winds really a big deal?

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

WIND DAMAGE - SEVERE SEVERE WIND DAMAGE TO HOMEOWNER.

“What are damaging winds?

Are they a big Deal? 

Damaging winds are often called “straight-line” winds to differentiate the damage they cause from tornado damage. Strong thunderstorm winds can come from a number of different processes. Most thunderstorm winds that cause damage at the ground are a result of outflow generated by a thunderstorm downdraft. Damaging winds are classified as those exceeding 50-60 mph.

Are damaging winds really a big deal?

Damage from severe thunderstorm winds account for half of all severe reports in the lower 48 states and is more common than damage from tornadoes. Wind speeds can reach up to 100 mph and can produce a damage path extending for hundreds of miles.”

Source: http://nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/wind/

Please click the link to continue reading the online article.

SERVPRO of Bowling Green/West Lucas County

STORM SERVICES

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Image of tree in home STORM DAMAGE? CALL SERVPRO!!

SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County 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 Lucas County and surrounding areasa, 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.

Call SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas county at 419-353-2300, today! We'll make it "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO Assessing Damage After a Rainstorm

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy rainstorms around the winter in Bowling Green/W. Lucas Co. greater area have caused damage to homes, which can transport dangerous microorganisms into your residence. Unlike damage from a broken pipe or leaky appliance, floodwaters pick up bacteria and germs from outdoors and deposit them inside. Long after a storm has passed, leftover water and humidity lingers behind in absorbent and porous materials. Determining the source of water in your home is an important step in the restoration process.

Understanding the Three Categories of Water Damage

Each water category requires a different cleaning and restoration procedure. The most important thing to determine is whether the water originated from inside or outside the residence. All damage caused by flooding from rainstorms is considered category 3.

• Category 1 and 2: Water from a source inside the home, such as a leaky pipe or appliance. 

• Category 3: Water from an outside source that is brought into a residence and causes flood damage. This category can introduce a variety of contaminants into a home. Floodwaters have oftentimes been in contact with harmful elements, such as sewage, that may harbor dangerous microorganisms.

Starting the Cleaning and Restoration Process

After determining the category, the next step is contacting a qualified professional service that has the proper equipment and skills to handle water damage. 

• Cleaning Category 1 or 2: Using extractors, experts should remove any water from saturated areas. Affected walls and baseboards would be removed and vent holes drilled to allow airflow. Fans and dehumidifiers should be strategically placed throughout the area to decrease humidity. Any category 2 damage would also include carpet disinfection.

• Cleaning Category 3: Contaminated areas should be isolated, and all remaining water removed. Nonabsorbent materials should be disinfected. After the decontamination, the rest of the procedure follows the same steps as a category 1 or 2 cleaning.

With the help of qualified professionals of SERVPRO of Bowling Green/W. Lucas Co. (419)867-8678, your home can be decontaminated and restored safely, quickly and correctly.

Wind Damage

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

House with 4 windows and sliding glass door with part of the roof and siding tore off by wind damage House damaged by wind

“What are damaging winds?

Damaging winds are often called “straight-line” winds to differentiate the damage they cause from tornado damage. Strong thunderstorm winds can come from a number of different processes. Most thunderstorm winds that cause damage at the ground are a result of outflow generated by a thunderstorm downdraft. Damaging winds are classified as those exceeding 50-60 mph.

Are damaging winds really a big deal?

Damage from severe thunderstorm winds account for half of all severe reports in the lower 48 states and is more common than damage from tornadoes. Wind speeds can reach up to 100 mph and can produce a damage path extending for hundreds of miles.”

Source: http://nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/wind/

Please click the link to continue reading the online article.

SERVPRO of Bowling Green/West Lucas County

3 QUICK TIPS TO HELP PREVENT LIGHTNING FIRE & DAMAGE

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bowling Green/West Lucas County has cleaned up our fair share of fire damage caused by lightning.

Lightning strikes the earth's surface about 100 times every second and it can reach temperatures 5 times hotter than the surface of the sun. About 10-20% of those strikes have the potential to cause a fire.

Thunderstorms and lightning strikes have been causing quite a bit of damage in the area. We are experts in fire damage cleanup, and we believe in safety first. Below we've provided 3 tips to help prevent fire damage caused by lighting.

1. Avoid using water during a thunderstorm. Taking showers, washing dishes, even washing your hands could put you and the structure you are occupying at danger. Water, especially water that contains minerals can be great for conducting electricity. Definitely do not go swimming. Lightning regularly strikes water and swimming during a thunderstorm is one of the most dangerous things you can do.  

2. In recent years the cost fire damage cleanup caused by lightning has gone up. This is mainly because the average household owns more electronic equipment. During a thunderstorm be sure to unplug things like computers and televisions. Also, do not use landline phones during a storm. A surge protector is also a good idea. They do not always protect against large direct lightning currents. But, the device does attempt to limit the voltage supplied to an electrical device by either blocking or by shorting to ground any unwanted voltages above a safe threshold. 

TIP: Check your homeowner's insurance policy. Not all policies cover electronic items lost or damaged during lightning and thunderstorms.

3. Invest in a professionally installed lightning protection system. Lightning rods create a network of low resistance paths for lightning currents  to travel. Using them can help you direct the lightening towards the ground and cause less damage to the building structure. 

FUN FACT:The Empire State Building is a lightning rod for it's surrounding area. It is struck by lightning an average of 23 times per year. For more information on lightning protection systems keep reading our blog!

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Bowling Green/West Lucas County has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. "Like It Never Happened" Contact us for more information.

CLOUDS

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Picture of dark clouds over a small town THERE IS ALL KINDS OF CLOUDS

Did you know there are different kinds of clouds that can deliver rain and snow, as well as thunderheads that can produce lightning and heavy precipitation?

Rain/Snow

Stratus clouds are low to mid-level clouds that develop into horizontal, flat formations, and stratus clouds can appear dark and dense or white and puffy. Storm fronts are often preceded or followed by stratus cloud formations carrying precipitation as rain or snow. Because temperatures are warmer closer to Earth and cooler higher up in the atmosphere, low-hanging stratus clouds generally bring rain while higher stratus clouds are associated with snow.

Thunderheads

Cumulus clouds are dense and puffy vertical cloud formations that extend as high as 15,000 meters (50,000 feet) into the atmosphere. Although cumulus clouds are common on sunny, fair-weather days, they earn the moniker of thunderheads because of their tendency to produce thunderstorms. A cumulus cloud becomes a cumulonimbus cloud capable of severe thunderstorms when sufficient heat, updraft and moisture combine in the cloud to produce lightning, thunder and heavy rains.

The next time you see cloud formations in the sky, see if you can figure out what kind it is.

Flooded Basement After A Storm

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

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

SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County is highly trained in water damage restoration including basement and crawlspace flooding at a storm. We have the experience, expertise, and equipment to remove the water and dry your basement or crawlspace properly. Our water removal and drying process emphasizes monitoring and documentation to validate your property is dry.

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

Basement Flooding? Call SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County  

24 Hour Emergency Water Removal Service

Basements can flood day or night, on weekends and even holidays, weather dose not wait around for you and that’s why SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County offers 24 emergency service, 365 days a year. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

Check For Roof Damage

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

After a major storm, it's a good idea to inspect your property for damage. Your home's main line of defense is your roof, and it takes a beating. Since it's hard to see your roof, be sure to pay special attention to things like dings in your gutters or tears in your window screens which indicate hail damage.

Even from the ground, you may see missing tiles or other signs of roof damage, but most leaks don't represent a need for whole roof replacement. Usually, the leak is coming from something requiring only minor roof repair. Find the source of the leak, stop it and clean the water damage.

Find the Leak Source

During storms, wind damage lets the rain into your roof. From the inside of your home, look for stains that indicate the source of a leak and the area that needs roof repair. You may see water stains on your ceiling or coming down a wall. When you see that, get your flashlight and head to the attic to look for the source of the leak in that area. Here are five common sources for a roof leak:

1. Vents and fans
2. Chimneys
3. Window dormers
4. Vent pipes
5. Unsecured nails and nail holes

Fix Water Damage

To complete your roof repair, start looking for materials that have been damaged by water. Check for discolorations and rotting wood, as well as wet drywall and insulation. If you find mold, you will need to be very careful not to spread the problem during cleanup. A mold remediation professional can help by creating a containment area while working on the water and mold damage. If you haven't found mold, be sure to start drying any wet materials right away. Mold can begin growing on wet damaged materials in as little as 48 hours. Complete drying is critical to preventing mold, and it may take longer than you realize, especially in a humid attic space. Specialists have monitoring equipment that they use to ensure materials are completely dry.

And remember SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County is just a call away at 419-353-2300. 

Storm Services

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County 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 Lucas County and surrounding areasa, 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.

Call SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas county at 419-353-2300, today! We'll make it like it never even happened. 

Storm Preparation

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Storms used to catch us unaware, and we only had time to react as best we could to what Mother Nature was throwing at us.  Thankfully, with today’s technology, we are usually given some advanced warning of an impending storm system.  While we still are mostly ‘reactionary’ to any storms that may come our way, by taking a few early precautionary measures, we should find ourselves in a better position to weather the storm!

Here are some steps you can take ahead of the storm:

* Fortify your home. Check your gutters, to ensure they can safely flow water away from your home. Trim any tree branches which may hang too close to your home.  Close any patio umbrellas, or fabric awnings, which could sustain damage in high winds.

* Sign up for Storm Alerts. Many communities send out text and email alerts during major storms to alert residents before the storm hits.

* Build an Emergency Kit. Keep a ‘kit’ of basic supplies you may need when sheltering from a storm. Dehydrated food, extra water, portable camp stove, flashlight + extra batteries, a First Aid kit and extra medication are always good basics to keep on hand. Store your kit in an easy to ‘grab & go’ bag, in case you must evacuate your home.

* Have an Evacuation Plan. In case you must leave your home, know the best route for leaving safely from your home. Have an idea ahead of time of a safe place you may go to in the event of an evacuation.

* Create a Communication Plan. If you are aware of a major storm event is on its way, be sure to have your cell phones charged up. Make sure family/friend’s phone numbers are entered in to every family members cell phones, so you can contact each other easily. Also, perhaps designate a close friend or another family member outside of your community to be a ‘Primary Contact’ that YOU can check in with to update them, and others who may be concerned about you can call for updates.

* DON’T FORGET YOUR PETS! Create an Emergency Storm kit just for your pets – extra food, water, perhaps a disposable litter box for cats. Have crates just in case you have to evacuate. And be sure your pets all have collars with the correct contact information, just in case they get away from you during an emergency.

We cannot change the weather, but by taking a few steps ahead of time CAN help a storm pass more easily.  After the storm clears, if you find damage to your home or property, do not hesitate to call upon your Cleaning and Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County today at 419-353-2300! We can help you get back on your feet after the storm!

Cashing the Storm

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Majority of storm chasers are meteorologists who study and predict weather patterns. They forecast where and when a particular storm is likely to occur. They analyze past and current data to determine a precise location. They also use visualization by looking at the patterns of the clouds. They commonly use a variety of sources to predict weather, such as daily outlooks, satellite and radar maps, maps of temperatures and dewpoints, computer models, wind charts, and watches and warning information. Storm chasers use a variety of equipment, including computers, satellites, portable weather stations, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), video cameras, and anemometers to measure wind. Typically while in the field, storm chasers use cell phones with data connections to view the latest weather information. Depending on the area, there are certain storm chasing seasons where severe weather occurs more frequently.

Some storm chasers have even developed special vehicles that they believe can withstand the strength of a tornado. For example, the Tornado Intercept Vehicle 2 (TIV2) weighs about 8 tons and has other special features that would make it hard — but not impossible! — for a tornado to lift it off the ground.

Once in the path of the storm, storm chasers place scientific equipment that they hope will be picked up by the tornado. Then they retreat as quickly as possible to a safe place. If the storm picks up the equipment, the scientists can use the data it records to better understand what happens inside these dangerous storms.

Article Source: http://www.emergency-management-degree.org/faq/what-does-a-storm-chaser-do/ and https://wonderopolis.org/wonder/why-do-some-people-chase-storms

After the Storm

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Permeance is one of the critical factors that our SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County technicians look at when restoring materials after a flood damage following a storm. The property determines the amount of moisture which can pass through a material. Items such as upholstery and carpets are highly porous, which means their permeance is so high. Materials such as vinyl, glass, and plastics have low permeance and absorb little or no water vapor. 
 
Our SERVPRO team also determines whether materials are hygroscopic - whether they can readily absorb and hold moisture from the surrounding air. The good with such materials is that they easily release the vapor when dried properly. Since they have a high permeance factor, they are quickly damaged when exposed to moisture for a long time. We can conclude that materials which easily absorb and release water are more straightforward to dry when compared to those that moisture finds it hard to penetrate. 
 
During the restoration process, our SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County technicians dry your items until we reach a condition known as EMC (Equilibrium moisture content). At this condition, there is no moisture moving from wet items to the dry air. To fasten the rate of evaporation, we use air movers to sweep the saturated air from surfaces and replace it with drier air. If the air becomes highly saturated with moisture, we use dehumidifiers to absorb the water vapor. The number of dehumidifiers set up must be in a position to absorb the moisture content that air movers sweep into the surrounding air. We do calculations to achieve that balance. 
 
At SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County, we're faster to any size disaster whether it is mold, fire, water, or storm damage related. Call us at 419-353-2300 at any time of the day for a stress-free restoration process. 

Storm Safety

8/7/2018 (Permalink)

In 2017 we had no shortage of severe weather hit around the globe. We have seen major Hurricanes such , Harvey, Irma, Jose, and Maria. The Atlantic alone has had 17 Named storms so far in 2017!

On top of the major named storms we have had sever thunderstorms, heavy rains and we are just barely into the winter season!

So what steps should you do after the storm is gone and you are left with damage to your home?

There are steps that you should be aware of, steps to make the process smother and less Complicated.

1. Take the proper safety precautions! If your property is heavily damaged contact a reputable restoration company such as SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County to secure your property.

2. Contact your insurance company.

3.  Photograph damage, if it safe for you to do so. This is important to be sure you have an accurate record to give to your insurance company.

4. If the damage is from a storm such as a hurricane, look into Federal Disaster Assistance.The federal government may have declared the area affected by the storm as a disaster area that is eligible for low-cost loans to help restore your property to normal. You will be required to file documents to receive these loans.

Sagging Ceiling

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

The Before Photo depicts the extensive water damage from a storm that breached the roof of this commercial building in Delta. Our SERVPRO crew demolished portions of the sagging ceiling for safety's sake before continuing with the cleanup. The roof was covered with a temporary blue tarp to keep out further rainwater, and the remainder of the ceiling was opened up and the materials discarded. Dehumidifiers and air movers worked hard to dry out the crawlspace area below the roof. This took several days, and after measuring to ensure that normal moisture content levels had been restored, the rebuild could begin. Before installing new drywall panels, the exposed trusses were sprayed, along with the HVAC duct system, with an antimicrobial agent for sanitizing and inhibiting future mold growth. Count on SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County for a rapid response and a swift remedy to your storm damaged property.

SERVPRO can quickly protect your home after a Storm

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

Following a storm flood or fire, water cleanup in your Holland, Ohio home is the first and one of the most important processes that you will need to have done. In the event that you don't complete the water removal process immediately, your property can be subjected to a plethora of unwanted, unnecessary complications such as mold growth, loss of possessions, and structural damage. If you find yourself in need of water damage services, it's important to find a skilled team of restoration experts like SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County. We can expedite the water extraction, cleaning, repair, and restoration components of the process.

  1. Water cleanup prevents Mold and Mildew growth:One of the reasons for securing the services of an experienced water damage cleanup company is inhibiting the growth of mold and mildew in your home. Unfortunately, these fungi can begin thriving and expanding on your property 48-72 hours after the initial water intrusion. Moreover, the moist, warm conditions created by water damage make your residential property a prime location in which mold can develop and proliferate.
  2. Prevent or Diminish Secondary Water Damage to the structure of your home:Another great benefit of rapid water removal is that it prevents structural damage from adversely impacting your property. When left unaddressed for an extended time, the water can wick into walls, and studs, rust appliances, and damage the electrical system. If a natural flooding disaster occurred, then the foundation could also have been compromised.

Prepared for the storm

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bowling Green and West Lucas County 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 Bowling Green or any West Lucas Counties, 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 419.867.8678

Hurricane season

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Storm path

Hurricane Harvey 

SERVPRO has deployed Disaster Recovery Teams to the areas of Texas and Louisiana most heavily impacted by Hurricane Harvey. Over 480 fully-equipped storm crews have deployed and additional crews are being added daily.

With a disaster of this magnitude, residents and business owners are encouraged to be patient while SERVPRO makes every effort to respond to each need as quickly as possible.

Hurricane Irma

Hurricane Irma is located in the eastern Caribbean, approaching Puerto Rico as a Category 5 Hurricane. Max sustained winds are at 185 mph. This hurricane is going to be destructive as it moves across the Caribbean. Predictive weather models have the Hurricane making landfall in southern Florida and may cause significant wind damage and flooding.

Please take precautions to keep you and your loved ones safe. 

Storm Tips

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

No matter where you live, you'll encounter storms. Most of the time these are routine, but some cause serious and dangerous problems. Here are tips for preparing for storms, and weathering them safely.

  • Always keep a battery-powered radio in your home so that you can tune to radio stations if you lose electricity. Check or change the batteries frequently.

  • Keep a flashlight in an easily accessible spot on every floor of your home. Check the batteries monthly, and replace them as needed.

  • Keep a supply of candles on hand for power failures.

  • As a safety precaution before leaving the house on vacation, unplug all electrical appliances except for those lights connected to automatic timers.

  • If you live in a storm-prone area, nail down roof shingles or use adequate adhesive to keep them from blowing off in a violent wind. For roofs with shingles that are not the seal-down type, apply a little dab of roofing cement under each tab.

  • A lightning-protection system should offer an easy, direct path for the bolt to follow into the ground and thus prevent injury or damage. Grounding rods (at least two for a house) should be placed at opposite corners of the house.

  • Don't go out during a hurricane unless you have to; however, if flooding threatens, seek high ground, and follow the instructions of civil defense personnel.

  • When a major storm is imminent, close shutters, board windows, or tape the inside of larger panes with an "X" along the full length of their diagonals. Even a light material like masking tape may give the glass the extra margin of strength it needs to resist cracking.
  • When a tornado threatens, leave windows slightly ajar.

  • The basement is not a good shelter during a tornado -- it's too close to gas pipes, sewer pipes, drains, and cesspools. A better shelter would be underground, far from the house (in case the roof falls) and away from the gas and sewer systems. Let all family members know where the shelter is.

  • Keep an eye on large trees -- even healthy ones -- that could damage your house if felled in a storm. Cut them back, if necessary.

When Storms or Floods hit Delta, SERVPRO is ready!

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO ofBowling Green and W. Lucas County 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. But a fast response time also means SERVPRO can get you back to normal faster. 

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Delta, 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 SERVPRO of Bowling Green and W. Lucas County Today at 419.867.8678

When Storms or Floods hit Holland SERVPRO is ready

8/19/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bowling Green/West Lucas County 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 Holland, 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 419.867.8678